Scientists say gene-editing technology may eradicate a mosquito in the U.S. that spreads dengue and other diseases. Concerns remain about the possible environmental impact of bioengineered mosquitoes.

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The death toll from pneumonia and other infectious diseases in the U.S. is much lower than it was 100 years ago, but new pathogens like the West Nile, dengue and Zika viruses pose challenges.

A 3-mile radius around the California theme park is designated as "national defense airspace" by the FAA, complicating attempts to control mosquitoes.

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Most people who are infected with West Nile virus never get sick. But some of those who do can wind up in the hospital, or suffer permanent disability. A Texas outbreak in 2012 may have made West Nile one of the more costly diseases in the state that year.

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Dr. Roger Nasci, a mosquito expert at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, says you don't necessarily need repellent with a high percentage of DEET to keep the 'skeeters away. Repellent still works well in low doses, and so far mosquitoes aren't growing resistant to it.

Public health officials thought West Nile virus was history. But in 2012, the virus struck back, sparking a major outbreak around Dallas that killed 19 people and left hundreds more disabled. Scientists say they've discovered key clues in the Dallas outbreak that could help predict future outbreaks.

(Image credit: Tom Fox/Dallas Morning News)

Even as winter approaches, mosquitoes are still spreading West Nile virus in the U.S. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says more than 5,000 cases have been reported so far this year.

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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is confident the nation has turned the corner on its worst-ever epidemic of West Nile virus disease. Next, scientists will try to figure out what made 2012 so bad.

(Image credit: Justin Sullivan)