Mosquitoes are among the most hated insects in the world. They aren’t just a nuisance – they’re deadly, as they spread diseases like malaria and dengue. Apparently, only female mosquitoes bite, as they need the protein contained in blood for their eggs.
You’re trying to enjoy an evening barbeque in the outdoors with friends and family, but a constant swarm of mosquitoes follows you around. You’re not alone. According to Jonathan Day, a professor of medical entomology at the University of Florida in Vero Beach Lab, 20% of people are highly attractive to mosquitoes. Ever wonder why you’re a mosquito magnet?
Clothing colour
Mosquitoes are highly visual, especially in the evening. People who wear dark coloured-clothing stand out more compared to people who wear light or bright-coloured clothing.
Blood type
According to a study from the Institute of Pest Control Technology, mosquitoes landed on people with Type O blood nearly twice as often as those with Type A blood, and Type B blood falls somewhere in the middle.
Carbon dioxide
Mosquitoes can smell carbon dioxide as far as 50 meters away. People with higher metabolic rates produce more carbon dioxide, as do larger people and pregnant women. This is the reason why mosquitoes are more attracted to adults than small children.
Exercise
Mosquitoes track us through the lactic acid in our sweat, and also when our body temperatures are higher than normal. Exercise increases the build-up of lactic acid and body heat, which will make you a mosquito magnet.
Genetics
The amount of uric acid and other substances secreted through our sweat glands depends on genetics, which makes some people an easier target compared to others. Genetics are estimated to account for 85% of the variability between people in their attractiveness to mosquitoes.
Beer
Mosquitoes are more attracted to drinkers after only 12 ounces of beer. The reason behind this could be that people breathe a little harder than usual and their skin gets warmer after drinking. If you’re drinking outdoors then remember to bring mosquito repellent!
Here are a few tips to make you less attractive to mosquitoes!
- Reduce intake of foods that are salty and high in potassium such as potatoes, prunes, raisins, bananas, lima beans, and acorn squash
- Garlic helps to keep mosquitoes away because of the sulfur compounds that are emitted through your skin when you eat garlic
- Wear light-coloured clothing and stay indoors during mosquito rush hour
