How to Avoid Being Attacked by Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes have always been a problem for humans, but it is most annoying when they come out during the summer and find any excuse to attack us and make our lives miserable. Although there are many solutions to this problem and ways to prevent mosquito bites, it is important to understand why and how exactly do these pesky bugs find us in the first place. That way, we can figure out how to better avoid being bitten by these flying bloodsuckers.

The Factors That Attract Mosquitoes

1. Carbon Dioxide

Mosquitoes use the secretion of carbon dioxide to locate their victims. This is because our exhaling contains 10 times more CO2 than average fresh air. When a person exhales, the mosquito will be attracted by the smell coming from their bodies and fly towards the source.

2. Body temperature

Apart from detecting carbon dioxide, mosquitoes have the ability to sense heat. Since people naturally have a higher body temperature than the surrounding environment, this makes us the perfect target for mosquitoes.

3. Light

Certain types of mosquitoes, such as those that feed during the day, are attracted to light. This is why they tend to congregate around windows and other brightly lit places.

4. Sweat

Sweat produces lactic acid, which is also a sign for mosquitoes that a potential meal is nearby. Therefore, it is important to take a shower after exercising or being outside for long periods of time, as this will make it harder for the bugs to detect you.

5. Skin odor

Mosquitoes have a very keen sense of smell, and they can detect the pheromones from our skin, as well as odors from perfumes and other cosmetics.

How to Prevent Mosquito Bites

1. Wear long-sleeved clothing and long trousers

Wearing long-sleeved clothing and long trousers will make it harder for mosquitoes to get to your skin and make contact. This also applies to lighter color clothing, as some species are attracted to darker shades.

2. Use mosquito netting

Using mosquito netting around your bed will create a barrier between you and the bugs and will help ensure that you do not get bitten while you are sleeping.

3. Use repellents

Repellents contain ingredients such as DEET, which helps mask the smell of carbon dioxide that the bugs use to locate us. Repellents should be applied regularly and on all exposed skin.

4. Avoid scented products

Scented products, such as perfumes or aftershaves, can attract mosquitoes. Therefore, it is important to avoid using these types of products if you want to keep the bugs away.

5. Install mosquito traps

Mosquito traps are devices that attract, capture, and kill mosquitoes in order to reduce their numbers and prevent them from coming into contact with humans.

Conclusion

Mosquitoes are annoying pests that come out during the summer and attackers humans. Understanding the factors that attract them is the first step to preventing mosquito bites. This can be done by wearing long-sleeved clothing, using mosquito nets, using repellents, avoiding scented products, and installing mosquito traps. These strategies will help keep you safe and sound.