In the best case, mosquitoes are incredibly irritating. In the worst case, they carry deadly diseases. But what attracts them to humans? And why do some people get bitten more than others? Here are 5 clinically-proven reasons:
- Our breath smells GREAT - For mosquitoes, “any type of carbon dioxide is attractive, even over a long distance
- The more active, the more attractive - Exercise produces more sweat, body heat and increases our CO2 emission, so we're more obvious to mozzies and our blood is tastier.
- They like beer - Evidence suggests that those who enjoy a boozy drink or two are more likely to be bitten by insects – this is because it affects your sweat production and skin temperature.
- You're lovely and warm - Pregnant women attract double the amount of mosquitoes as they are about a degree warmer than other people, and they exhale roughly 20% more carbon dioxide. Tasty.
- You have great taste in clothes - Wearing dark clothing can make you stand out to a mosquito; reds and purples are particularly vibrant for mosquitoes. To reduce your chance of being bitten, simply wear light coloured clothing.