If you’ve noticed an uptick in mosquito activity around your yard or you’d simply like to get ahead of the problem, call Smash Pest Control or reach out online to learn more about our mosquito control services.
Why Do Mosquitoes Bite Some People More Than Others?
If you’ve ever been the only one swatting while your friends relax in peace, you’re not imagining things as mosquitoes do prefer some people over others. Their selection process is driven by a combination of biological and environmental factors, many of which are completely out of your control. One of the strongest attractants is carbon dioxide (CO). Mosquitoes can detect CO from more than 30 feet away, and the more you exhale, the easier it is for them to find you. This puts larger individuals or those who are physically active at greater risk, as they tend to emit more carbon dioxide.
Another key factor is body heat and sweat. Mosquitoes are equipped to sense heat, and humans who run warmer or are physically active outdoors tend to be more noticeable. Sweat also contains lactic acid, uric acid, and ammonia – all chemical cues that mosquitoes find appealing.
Your blood type may also play a role. Studies have suggested that people with Type O blood are bitten more frequently than those with other blood types. In fact, about 85% of people secrete a chemical signal through their skin that reveals their blood type, which may influence mosquito behavior.
Skin bacteria can also impact your bite risk. Mosquitoes seem to prefer people with higher concentrations of certain skin microbes. These bacteria give off subtle odors that mosquitoes use to locate a host. Interestingly, it’s not just the number of bacteria, but the specific types that matter. But don’t go laying up just – even your clothing color makes a difference. Mosquitoes are visual hunters and are more likely to be drawn to people wearing dark colors like black, navy, and red, which stand out more against the landscape. Lighter clothing is less visible to them and may offer a small advantage.
Are Pregnant Women More Attractive to Mosquitoes?
It’s an unfortunate truth that pregnant women are statistically more likely to be bitten by mosquitoes, and there are several reasons for this.
Pregnancy causes an increase in carbon dioxide output. Pregnant women exhale more air with each breath, which emits a stronger signal to mosquitoes that a potential blood meal is nearby. In fact, studies have shown that women in their third trimester exhale over 20% more CO than non-pregnant individuals. The body temperature of pregnant women also tends to be slightly higher. Mosquitoes are drawn to heat, and this increase in warmth can make a pregnant woman’s body more appealing to them.
Hormonal changes during pregnancy may also subtly alter skin chemistry or sweat composition. While the exact chemical signals haven’t been fully isolated, it’s likely that these changes contribute to the increased attraction.
Given that mosquito bites can carry diseases like West Nile virus and Zika, which are especially concerning during pregnancy, it’s important for expectant mothers to take extra steps to minimize exposure.
How Can I Make Myself Less Attractive to Mosquitoes?
While you can’t change your blood type or stop exhaling carbon dioxide, there are effective ways to reduce your appeal to mosquitoes:
- Use insect repellent. Choose an EPA-registered product that contains DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535. Apply according to label instructions for best results.
- Wear light-colored clothing. Stick to whites, beiges, and pastels. Avoid dark hues that stand out visually to mosquitoes.
- Cover up when possible. Long sleeves and pants reduce the amount of exposed skin and create a barrier that’s harder for mosquitoes to penetrate.
- Limit outdoor activity during peak hours. Mosquitoes are most active at dawn and dusk. If you can, schedule outdoor time outside of these periods.
- Reduce standing water around your home. Empty birdbaths, planters, buckets, and anything else that collects water. Mosquitoes lay eggs in stagnant water, and a single bottle cap of water can support dozens of larvae.
- Avoid strong fragrances. Perfumes, scented lotions, and even some deodorants can attract mosquitoes. Choose unscented products when spending time outdoors.
- Shower after exercise. Sweat and body odor are attractive to mosquitoes. A quick rinse can reduce the chemical cues they rely on.
Call Smash Pest Control for Professional Mosquito Treatment
Tired of feeling like a walking buffet every time you step outside? If mosquitoes are ruining your summer plans, Smash Pest Control is ready to help. Our mosquito control services target breeding sites and adult mosquitoes to drastically reduce their presence around your home or business. Our team understands the local mosquito population and what it takes to manage it effectively. Don’t rely on candles or gimmicks, get a proven solution from professionals who know what works. Contact Smash Pest Control today and reclaim your backyard from relentless mosquitoes.
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