What’s Bugging You?

When we say something is “in our blood,” it’s usually a positive. It means that traveling, music or whatever we hold dear is so important that it seems written into our DNA. And while we don’t have the same affinity for mosquitoes, there is a connection between our DNA and their attraction to us.

So, let’s talk about these vampiric gnats and some of the burning, itching questions you may have about them—including why they’re attracted to some of us more than others.

1. Why do bites seem worse in the summer?

Mosquitoes thrive in summer because heat is beneficial to their life cycle as it’s what often draws us outdoors. Female mosquitoes, the culprits behind those itchy welts, need blood to nurture their eggs, and there are more “victims” out and about during the summer months.

2. Why do I seem to get bitten more than other people?

Interestingly, these bloodthirsty ladies have preferences when it comes to their meals. Who they choose to bite has to do with factors such as:

• Blood type: While some discount this as a myth, at least three studies in 1974, 2002 and 2019 have found mosquitoes prefer Type O blood. Still that doesn’t mean A, B and AB are off the hook.
• Body odor: We aren’t suggesting you need more deodorant. Our scents can vary in “attractiveness” and are caused by diet, genetics and hygiene. And while undetectable to our noses, these pesky bugs particularly like the scent of the oily layer that coats our skin (it keeps our skin moisturized and protected).
• Breathing: Sorry to break it to you, but just breathing tells mosquitoes that a meal is nearby. That’s especially a problem for pregnant women, whose CO2 levels are 21% higher and body temperatures are elevated compared to non-pregnant people. This makes them twice as likely to be bitten.
• Clothing color: Dark colors, such as black and dark blue can make you a target. Some think this is because dark colors help retain heat, and mosquitoes are attracted to warmth.
• Drinking beer: It’s often a staple at neighborhood barbeques, but tossing back as little as one beer can make them buzz toward you. While no one is sure why, researchers think it may be because of beer’s effect on our blood and body temperatures. The bugs might also like the carbon dioxide released when you crack one open.
• Genetics: Timothy C. Winegard, author of The Mosquito: A Human History of Our Deadliest Predator, suggests that up to 85% of mosquito bites may be due to our DNA. A study with twins further supported this, as identical twins were similar in attractiveness to mosquitoes than fraternal twins were. Like we said—sometimes it’s just in your blood.

3. Are all bug sprays created equal? Also, can I use it and sunscreen?

To protect against mosquito bites, use EPA-approved insect repellents—but apply it after your sunscreen. Remember to use repellents with picaridin, IR3535 or lemon eucalyptus oil, but the most effective types contain 10 to 30% DEET. (However, researchers are working on a repellent that lasts months after one application.)

4. How can I keep mosquitos out of my yard?

Eliminate standing water where mosquitoes breed (puddles, bird baths, etc.), keep your lawn mowed, remove leaf litter and keep a barrier of wood chips or gravel between wooded areas. This can reduce the risk of both mosquitos and ticks.

5. How can something so small make me this itchy? And how can I make it stop?

When mosquitoes bite and draw out blood, their saliva also injects us with proteins and anticoagulants to thin our blood. Our bodies register those foreign substances, which triggers our immune systems and leads to inflammation.

Over-the-counter treatments like antihistamines, anti-itch creams or benzocaine can provide relief. However, resist the urge to scratch, as that can break the skin and lead to infection.

6. Is it true these little pests carry disease?

Although most mosquito bites only cause irritation and itching, there are situations when medical help is necessary. Mosquitoes are notorious for transmitting diseases such as West Nile, Zika, dengue, malaria, yellow fever and chikungunya. These diseases infect around 700 million people annually and claim more than one million lives worldwide. So, if you experience symptoms like fever, headache, rash, body aches or a stiff neck in the three to 14 days following a bite, it’s important to see a doctor.

We know June is for barbecues and pool parties, but you don’t have to let mosquitoes bug you. Just remember to protect yourself the best way you can so your summers are filled with fireflies rather than itchy surprises!

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