A new study in the US explains why mosquitoes bite some people more for different reasons. Why do mosquitoes bite some people more and never touch others?
In general, mosquitoes bite some blood types, light-skinned ones, and thinner ones. Some of these interpretations are based on experience, while others are based on research. A new study suggests that there are some smells that mosquitoes like, and other physical and chemical signs that make them more interested in certain people.
The study, led by a group of researchers at Miami International University in the United States, investigated why mosquitoes bite some people more. Research has found that molecules such as indole, nonanol, octenol, and lactic acid produce odors that attract the attention of mosquitoes. Prof.Dr. Dr. Aynur Eren Topkaya, Head of Medical Microbiology Department of Yeditepe University Hospitals, answered the questions about mosquito bites.
 

• What Smells Attract Mosquitoes? What Smells Do They Not Like?  Does the Smell of Sweat Abduct Mosquitoes or Attract Them? Perfume etc. Do Perfumes Attract Them More?

There are observations and research on which smells mosquitoes are more interested in. Mosquitoes are especially interested in carbon dioxide gas and some acids excreted in sweat, so there is a higher risk of exposure to mosquitoes in conditions that increase metabolic rate. For example, since physical exercises increase our metabolic rate during pregnancy or when certain hormones are increased, causing us to secrete more carbon dioxide and sweat, and lactic acid, we may be exposed to mosquitoes more. However, the smell of soap or perfume is unattractive to mosquitoes.
It has been stated in some studies that mosquitoes show more interest in certain areas of the human body, especially in areas such as the ankle, and it has been investigated whether this situation is related to the normal bacterial flora in our skin and it has been determined that mosquitoes show more interest in our body areas where the bacterial flora is more densely located. This result was also attributed to the metabolic substances produced by the bacteria in this region due to their metabolism. We know that the microbial agents of some viral, parasitic, and bacterial diseases can be carried through mosquitoes.
Mosquito bites can reach more disturbing sizes, especially in people with allergic bodies.
We cannot change our genetics, but by showering often with soap and water, we can both reduce the smell of sweat and regulate the colonization of flora bacteria in our skin. In this case, it may be possible to become naturally less at risk for mosquito bites.
 

• Are Dark Clothes Riskier for Mosquitoes? Do They Have Different Reactions to Colors or White?

Of course, it is not possible to say anything definite about this issue. However, while some studies have shown that mosquitoes are more likely to come in some colors, little is known about how the behavior here occurs. Of course, it is unclear whether mosquitoes actually prefer colors to wavelengths, like humans.
However, according to a study conducted on this subject, mosquitoes prefer to ignore the cooler shades of green, purple, blue, and white. In addition, some colors are more attractive to them. These colors are orange, red, and black. Most of these colors correspond to long wavelengths of light. Human skin is also thought to be attractive to mosquitoes due to its red and orange range and long wavelength. Therefore, choosing green, purple, blue, and white colors in clothing selection may be a different way to keep mosquitoes away. However, research needs to continue in order to provide clearer data on this topic.

• Is There A Difference Between the Genders? Do Males Bite More? Are Men, Pregnant, Overweight More Targeted by Mosquitoes?

It is stated by ethnologists that the property that can have a magnet effect on mosquitoes is body chemistry. The amount of carbon dioxide excreted from the skin or mouth is also an important factor at this point. The metabolic rate of the person is also effective in the release of carbon dioxide. Men, pregnant women, and people who are overweight are more likely to be bitten by mosquitoes due to the release of carbon dioxide because their metabolic rate is higher than others. However, since exercise increases the metabolic rate, it is possible to become more attractive to mosquitoes after exercise. Increased body temperature of pregnant women can also be another factor.

• Some specialists say that it is beneficial to avoid scratching the mosquito bite and to hit that area with simple slap-style flicks. Is It True That We Should Not Scratch?

The cause of itching and small swelling and redness, especially as a result of mosquito bites that become unbearable in the summer months and evenings, is actually a reaction of the immune system.  Because after biting, the body reacts to the secretion left by the mosquito, and the burning, and itching develop responsively. It is important to try not to scratch, no matter how hard it is. Because scratching may cause infection to develop in that area. In particular, scratching enough to bleed prepares the ground for skin infection. Especially with dirty nails.
Therefore, it would be better to wash that area with soap and water after mosquito bites and to use topical creams that can reduce itching.

Press Coverage: posta | indigodergisi | hurriyet