Have you ever been out with a group of people and noticed that some people get bit by mosquitoes more than others?
It’s not just your imagination. Mosquitoes do have a preference for some people over others.
But what is it about these unlucky individuals that makes them so appealing to mosquitoes? And is there anything they can do to stop the bites?
mosquitoes Smell Your Body Odor
Mosquitoes seek out their hosts using several sensory systems, including vision, thermoreception (sensing your body temperature), hygroreception (moisture sensing), and gustation (taste).
One of the first signals they pick up on is your body odor through their olfactory sense – smell.
Everyone produces sweat and other chemicals that have a distinct scent. This doesn’t necessarily mean that people who get bit more are more smelly, but mosquitoes prefer some types of body odors over others.
mosquitoes Detect Your Body Heat
Another major cue that mosquitoes use to find their hosts is body heat. This is how they find warm-blooded animals, such as humans.
This may also be why they tend to bite people on the face and neck and near your ankles – these are areas that may be slightly warmer than the rest of your body.
This may also suggest that you are more likely to attract mosquitoes if you are extra hot and sweaty.
How To Keep The mosquitoes Away
Keep mosquitoes from biting you. It’s essential to take measures to protect yourself.
- Clean up any spills or standing water around your home, as this is where mosquitoes will reproduce and grow.
- Use mosquito repellent when outdoors, and be sure to cover up with long sleeves and pants when possible.
- Keep mosquitoes out of your home by ensuring all screens are in good repair and doors and windows are properly sealed.
What To Do After You’ve Been bit
If a mosquito has bitten you, you can do a few things to ease the itch and swelling.
- Wash the area with soap and water.
- Apply a cold compress to the area.
- Apply a topical anti-itch cream, lotion, or aloe vera gel.
- Don’t scratch the itchiness, as this can lead to an infection.
- Use over-the-counter antihistamines to help with the itch and swelling.
If you have any severe allergies or reactions to mosquito bites, seek medical attention immediately.
Most mosquito bites will go away on their own within a few days. However, if you develop any signs of infection, such as fever or discoloration, seek medical attention right away.
