Public has more time to comment on modified mosquito test

KEY WEST, Fla. (AP) – The public has more time to file comments on a proposal to release genetically modified mosquitoes in a test in the Florida Keys.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration last month determined the trial would not harm humans or the environment. A final decision is still pending.

The Florida Keys Mosquito Control District wants British biotech firm Oxitec to test its modified mosquitoes near Key West. The district is looking for new ways to kill the species that carries Zika and other viruses.

The original comment period was 30 days. Responding to public requests for more time, the FDA extended the deadline until May 13.

Oxitec will host meetings Monday and Tuesday in Key West to discuss the trial. The mosquito control board also will discuss it at its monthly meeting April 19 in Marathon.