As we enter the summer for good, one of the most annoying situations is mosquito bites. In addition to being annoying, it can also be dangerous. Yet, why do mosquitoes bite some people and not others? The reason and ways to escape
Mosquitoes prove to be man’s greatest enemy during the summer months and probably one of the most dangerous insects on earth that have killed millions yearly. There are more than 3,500 different species of mosquitoes in the wild. Some transmit to humans viruses, bacteria, and parasites that cause malaria to West Nile virus infection.
But it is strange, if not annoying at times, that mosquitoes somehow bite much more often specific people, even in the same company in the same area.
See some truths on the subject of “mosquitoes”, which can not be disputed, as they have been confirmed by specific research.
What mosquitoes like and bite some people and not others
Blood type
A study found that in the laboratory, mosquitoes “selected” people with blood type “0” almost double as often as those with blood type “A”.
In addition, based on other genes, about 85% of people secrete a chemical signal through their skin, which indicates the type of blood they have, while 15% do not secrete such a substance.
And research has shown that a mosquito will be more attracted to someone who secretes the substance, regardless of their blood type.
Carbon Dioxide
One of the main ways mosquitoes finds their targets is by the smell of carbon dioxide emitted into the breath. They use a unique instrument to do this and can detect carbon dioxide even from 50 meters away! Therefore, people who exhale more carbon dioxide generally (these are usually the most prominent people in size) are more attracted to mosquitoes. This is one of the most significant reasons why children suffer less often than adults from mosquito bites.
Exercise and metabolism
In addition to carbon dioxide, mosquitoes find their “victims” by detecting lactic acid, uric acid, ammonia, and other substances excreted through their sweat and attracted to people with higher temperatures. Because intense exercise increases the concentration of lactic acid and heat in the body, it will probably make you “stand out” and be chosen as a “target”.
Meanwhile, some genetic factors affect the amount of uric acid and other substances naturally emitted by each individual, making some individuals easier to “spot” by mosquitoes than others.
What are secrets to avoid mosquito bites
Get rid of any stagnant water near your home
Mosquitoes can breed in just 14 days in a minimal amount of water in an old pot, in a gutter, or even in the water of the bird feeder.
Keep mosquitoes out
Use screens on windows if you have them open or use air conditioning to prevent mosquitoes from invading your home. Or, if you do not have screens, you can put a mosquito net over your bed.
Use an insect repellent
Just watch out for skin irritation and refrain from spraying chemicals around the mouth or eyes. A mosquito researcher, Jonathan Day at the University of Florida, suggests spraying on your ankles, soles, soles of your feet and wrists. These are areas with softer skin that mosquitoes usually prefer.
Wear light-coloured clothing, especially outdoors
The dark colours (black, deep blue and deep red) stand out, thus attracting mosquitoes. Also, thicker fabrics with looser adjustments offer more protection than thin clothes with a tight fit.
Stay indoors at dusk and dawn
Even though mosquitoes can bite you at any time of the day, it is wise to limit your exposure during the hours they usually feed. If you can not avoid being outside at these times of the day, be sure to take other precautions (clothes and insect repellents).
