Ugh! Why do mosquitoes bite me so much? My friends say having me along is the only bug spray they need! Is it my blood type? Is it what I eat, what I wear, or how I smell?
Many people ask the same questions to understand why they are mosquito magnets. Now, a guy or girl magnet, not so bad, but mosquitos, no thanks! With help from the bug experts at Mosquito Joe®, we are going to give you the answers.
Mosquitoes and Blood Type:
For over 100 years, scientists have asked, “Why do mosquitoes bite certain people more than others?” This curiosity has led them to investigate the variables that attract mosquitoes. A study published in 1974 reviewed 102 participants, measuring how often each was bitten. The researchers evaluated each person by skin temperature, percentage of subcutaneous fat, pigmentation, age, sex, nutrition, and blood type. Then, blood was extracted from the mosquitoes to determine the blood type that was most consumed by the feeding females.
After crunching the numbers, researchers concluded that the nasty biters showed a marked preference for feeding on type O blood (O, what a bummer!). That explains why a mosquito who bites you once, often bites you again (going back for seconds). Type B is another favored blood type that attracts mosquitoes, followed by type AB, and lastly, type A.
A 2004 study evaluated participants’ secretor status as well as blood type. Many people secrete antigens from their blood type in bodily fluids like sweat, saliva, and tears. This means that creatures with an exceptional sense of smell, like dogs and mosquitoes (and presumably vampires), can detect the blood type of secretors without directly testing (or tasting) their blood.
Other Factors That Contribute to Mosquitoes Biting?
Clothing can also have an impact on whether a mosquito will bite you. While the underlying reason is still obscure, female mosquitoes are attracted to black, red, orange, and cyan. When participating in outdoor activities or attending an outdoor event, experts suggest wearing white or light-colored clothing.
Mosquitoes also hunt their prey by smell and zero in on the carbon dioxide you release whenever you exhale. A study revealed that pregnant women are twice as likely to get bitten than women who are not pregnant. It is believed the slightly higher body temperature and increased release of carbon monoxide may factor into this preference. Exercising can also increase the levels of attracting mosquitoes. They are drawn to carbon monoxide and lactic acid, both of which are produced in abundance when working out.
Mosquitoes feed on the nectar of many flowing plants, therefore, they can find their food through different scents. Watch out if you are wearing floral perfumes/colognes/lotions, as well as those who have consumed beer or eaten foods rich in potassium, such as bananas. Unfortunately, there does not appear to be anything you can eat to repel these biters.
What should you do now?
Stay Bite-Free with Mosquito Joe®!
Mosquito Joe is dedicated to reclaiming your outdoor spaces for bite-free family fun. Our comprehensive pest control services include barrier treatments, mosquito misting services, and eco-friendly treatments to repel mosquitoes.
Our work is backed by the Neighborly Done Right Promise™ and the Mosquito Joe® guarantee, which ensures your satisfaction. Request a free quote today! 704-900-0311 or go to www.southeastcharlotte.mosquitojoe.com
