No matter where are you, the insects like Ants and mosquitos always find you. Do you wonder ever why they are so dedicated and faithful to you? No, well, I have such a question in my mind all the time as they always manage to spoil my vacations and my favourite part of the body – my legs.
So, here are the reasons why:
- Carbon Dioxide: We all produce carbon dioxide when we exhale, and Mosquitoes can detect changes in the level of this gas in the environment. The existence of a prospective host can be detected by a spike in carbon dioxide levels. After that, the mosquito will pursue and suck that person.
- Body Odour: Mosquitoes are drawn to particular substances found on the skin and in the sweat of humans. These chemicals provide a distinct odour that mosquitoes find appealing. The causes of the differences in body odour that make certain persons more attractive to mosquitoes are currently being researched. Genetics, particular germs on the skin, or a combination of both could be to blame.
- Studying: Mosquitoes may develop a preference for a particular host! Certain sensory cues, including odours, may be associated with hosts who have provided them with a high-quality blood meal.
Research on mosquito-borne disease transmission discovered that 20% of hosts accounted for 80% of disease transmission in a population. This could indicate that mosquitoes only attack a small percentage of the population. - Alcohol: People who had drunk beer were found to be more attractive to mosquitoes than those who had not.
- Colours: Mosquitoes are attracted to dark colours but no one knows why. In any case, mosquitoes may find you more attractive if you’re dressed in black or other dark hues.
- Heat and vaporised water: Our bodies generate heat, and the amount of water vapour near our skin varies based on the temperature outside. A mosquito can detect heat and water vapour as it gets closer to us. This could influence whether or not it bites. Mosquitoes are drawn to neighbouring heat sources that are at a comfortable temperature, according to one study.
- Pregnancy: Mosquitoes appear to be more attracted to pregnant women than non-pregnant women, according to studies. It’s possible that this is due to the fact that pregnant women have a higher body temperature and exhale more carbon dioxide.
Interesting Fact: Every time you see them proudly sitting on your skin (trying to suck your blood), they leave behind some protein-rich saliva. Your immune system responds naturally when your body detects an invader. Histamines are released by your body to provide protection. As a result, don’t be shocked if you notice redness a long time after the bite.
A Note to All: If you’re heading to an area where mosquitoes are likely to be prevalent, take precautions to protect yourself. If you’ve been bitten, the bump that forms will go away in a few days and can be treated with creams, lotions, and cold therapy.
It’s also crucial not to scratch the bite, as this will worsen the infection and cause more redness.