HOUSTON – If it feels like mosquitoes always choose you over everyone else at the backyard barbecue, you’re not imagining it.
As Houston enters peak mosquito season, many residents are swatting away more bites than ever. But scientists say mosquitoes don’t randomly pick their targets. Certain people naturally give off signals that make them far more attractive to the blood-sucking insects.
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A scientific review published in the journal Current Research in Parasitology & Vector-Borne Diseases found that human attractiveness to mosquitoes varies significantly from person to person due to a combination of body odor, genetics, skin bacteria, carbon dioxide production, body heat and even pregnancy.
Does your blood type matter?
Research suggests blood type may play a role, though it’s not the biggest factor.
Several studies have found mosquitoes appear to prefer people with Type O blood more often than those with Type A blood, with Type B generally falling somewhere in the middle. However, researchers caution that blood type alone doesn’t determine whether you’ll become a mosquito magnet.
Experts say mosquitoes rely on a complex mix of sensory cues long before they ever reach your skin.
Your scent may be attracting them
One of the biggest factors is body odor.
Mosquitoes are highly sensitive to chemicals released through sweat and skin. They are especially attracted to compounds such as carbon dioxide, lactic acid, ammonia and other volatile organic compounds naturally produced by the human body.
Scientists have also found that the bacteria living on a person’s skin can influence how attractive they are to mosquitoes. Different bacterial communities create different odor profiles, which can make some people irresistible to the insects while others are largely ignored.
Other surprising mosquito magnets
Researchers have identified several additional factors that may increase mosquito attraction:
- People who exhale more carbon dioxide, including larger adults.
- Individuals with higher body temperatures.
- People who recently exercised.
- Pregnant women.
- Those consuming alcohol, particularly beer, which can increase body heat and carbon dioxide output.
Even your clothing can make a difference
That black T-shirt may be working against you.
Mosquitoes use visual cues in addition to scent. Research suggests darker clothing can make people easier for mosquitoes to spot compared to lighter-colored clothing.
Why this matters in Houston
The Houston area provides ideal mosquito breeding conditions thanks to its heat, humidity and frequent rainfall. Standing water in bird baths, clogged gutters, flower pots and even bottle caps can become breeding grounds for mosquitoes in just a few days.
Because mosquitoes can transmit diseases including West Nile virus, dengue and Zika, understanding what attracts them can help residents better protect themselves during the summer months.
How to reduce your chances of getting bitten
While you can’t change your blood type or genetics, experts recommend:
- Wearing light-colored clothing.
- Using EPA-registered insect repellents.
- Avoiding standing water around your home.
- Using fans outdoors, which help disperse carbon dioxide and body odors.
- Limiting outdoor exposure during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
So if it seems like mosquitoes always find you first at the cookout, science suggests there may be a reason. Your blood type, body chemistry and even the microbes living on your skin could be sending out an irresistible invitation.