Some people are more prone to mosquito bites than others. Female mosquitoes seek out vertebrates to bite to obtain the nutrients they need to develop eggs properly. Biting mosquitoes generally opt for smaller animals because they don’t have the best vision. They also use movement and color to find their food sources and are drawn to food targets by detecting lactic acid, CO2, and other items. Mosquitoes prefer dark-colored fabrics and shapes as well as moving objects since these are usually the most promising targets.
It’s thought that about 20 percent of the population experiences an above-average incidence of mosquito bites. Mosquitoes are attracted to certain blood types and the amount of lactic acid found on the skin. The following human characteristics attract mosquitoes to certain people and not others:
- Obese and overweight people because they exhale more CO2.
- Those that have an O blood.
- People that have a higher body temperature.
- Sweaty skin on those after exercising.
- Humans that produce more lactic acid and uric acid through their pores.
- Those who have recently exercised because their raised metabolic rate increases CO2 emission.
- People in motion because they are easier targets for mosquitoes.
- Those that are wearing dark clothing, which stands out more to mosquitoes.
You can help keep mosquitoes away from you by showering after exercising to reduce the presence of sweat and CO2. Also, wear light-colored clothes and long-sleeved shirts when you are outside, particularly during the morning and at dusk.
