Have you ever felt like you were the only person at a barbecue getting bit by mosquitoes? Don’t worry, you’re not imagining it. It’s true that some people attract mosquitoes more easily than others, and we’re going to tell you why.
Humans produce carbon dioxide. The human body inhales oxygen and exhales carbon dioxide, which is arguably the most powerful attractant to mosquitoes! But if everyone produces this strong attractant, how is it that there are still some that come away with more bug bites than others? The answer lies in the size of the person. It makes sense that larger individuals would intake more oxygen, and therefore release more carbon dioxide. However, just because there’s a heavy breather in the group bringing the mosquitoes to the party, that doesn’t mean that person will be the sole target.
Mosquitoes are picky about blood type. Just like any living thing, there are “foods” that mosquitoes enjoy more than others. When it comes to blood, studies have found that they prefer Type O above all others. Some people secrete an odorant that allows mosquitoes to know which blood type they carry, making them more susceptible to those itchy, red bumps we’d all rather do without.
Having a beer or two can make a difference. Though tossing back a few cold ones is almost a given at any outdoor summer gathering, drinking beer actually makes you more prone to mosquito bites. Comparative studies have shown that the likelihood of getting bitten after a brew is significantly higher than before.
To learn more about why mosquitoes are so picky about their prey, click here!
If you’re one of the unfortunate people whom mosquitoes love to nibble on just give us a call! Pest Control Unlimited provides mosquito control programs to the Massachusetts area and our efforts have the ability to control up to 95% of the mosquitoes that have taken up residence on your property.
Call us at 888-649-9919 or click here to learn more and book your one-time treatment just in time for the festivities!
