Mosquitoes

Notes

• Mosquitoes are attracted to certain compounds that are present on human skin and in sweat. These compounds give us a specific odor that can draw mosquitoes in. (source)

• Body odor itself is determined by genetics. If you’re related to someone who is often bitten by mosquitoes, you may be more susceptible too. (source)

• Research has shown that mosquitoes are attracted to the color black, but little is known about why. Regardless, if you’re wearing black or other dark colors, you may be more attractive to mosquitoes. (source)

• A small 2002 study looked at the effects of alcohol consumption on attractiveness to mosquitoes. The researchers found that people who had consumed beer were more attractive to mosquitoes than people who had not. (source)

• Studies have shown that mosquitoes appear to be more attracted to pregnant women than non-pregnant women. This may be because pregnant women have a high body temperature and exhale more carbon dioxide. (source)

• Mosquitoes are drawn to floral scented soaps, deodorants, perfumes, and moisturizing lotions. (source)

• They are also drawn to smelly feet or socks and your sweat or skin odor; and they will use these skin-derived chemical signals and smells to find you. (source)

• If you have a higher metabolic rate or warmer body temperature, mosquitos will notice. (source)

• Mosquitoes are attracted to the carbon dioxide you exhale as well as the lactic acid produced by exercise. (source)

• Studies have found that if you have Type O blood, mosquitoes will be more interested in you. (source)

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