Why The Mozzy Loves You

I hate Mozzies. I mean it’s not their fault, blame mother nature, but they are just a damn nuisance aren’t they, especially when you’re trying to enjoy a Beaujolais in the back garden on a warm summer’s evening

My hatred also has additional cause. Mozzies are known carriers of numerous diseases, including malaria, dengue, yellow fever, and Zika virus. Some people seem to attract mosquitoes more than others, but why is this so?

Mosquito Biology

First, it's essential to understand that only female mosquitoes bite. They require the protein found in blood to produce eggs. Male mosquitoes, on the other hand, feed exclusively on plant nectar.

The Science of Mosquito Preference

So, why do some people seem to be mosquito magnets?

The answer lies in the complex interaction of factors that make up our individual scent profiles, which are incredibly attractive to these blood-sucking insects.

1. Carbon Dioxide (CO2): Mosquitoes can detect CO2 from up to 50 meters away. People who emit more CO2, such as larger individuals or pregnant women, are often more attractive to mosquitoes.

2. Lactic Acid, Uric Acid, and Ammonia: These substances, found in sweat, can attract mosquitoes. The more you exercise, the more appealing you may be to these pests.

3. Skin Temperature and Moisture: Mosquitoes are drawn to warm, humid environments. If your body temperature is slightly higher or you perspire more, you may find yourself a mosquito magnet.

4. Blood Type: Studies have shown that mosquitoes seem to prefer certain blood types. People with Type O blood are twice as likely to get bitten as those with Type A blood.

5. Microbiota: The bacteria on our skin also contribute to our body odour, which can attract or repel mosquitoes. The composition of skin microbiota varies from person to person, contributing to the individual differences in mosquito attractiveness.

Natural Measures to Keep Mosquitoes Away

Fortunately, there are numerous natural ways to keep mosquitoes at bay. Here are a few strategies you can adopt:

1. Plant Mosquito-Repelling Plants: Certain plants are known for their mosquito-repelling properties. Plants like citronella, lavender, marigolds, and lemongrass can help deter mosquitoes from your garden or patio.

2. Use Essential Oils: Many essential oils are natural mosquito repellents. These include citronella, peppermint, lemongrass, geranium, and eucalyptus oils. They can be applied directly to the skin (after being diluted with a carrier oil) or used in diffusers, fill a spray bottle with these oils with water and spray down your plants.

3. Dress Appropriately: Wearing long sleeves and pants, especially in lighter colours, can help reduce your attractiveness to mosquitoes, wear a striped tank top with chords, that should do it.

4. Remove Standing Water: Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water, so removing sources of standing water around your home can help reduce their numbers.

5. Avoid Peak Mosquito Hours: Mosquitoes are most active at dawn and dusk. If possible, try to stay indoors during these times.

6. Use Natural Body Products: As mentioned, certain chemicals on your skin can attract mosquitoes. Try using unscented or mosquito-repellent soaps, lotions, and shampoos, those little vampires eat nectar so are attracted to fragrances. Recent research has shown that soaps made with coconut seem to be a natural deterrent to the little blood suckers too, so lather yourself up in some coconut oil or wash with coconut based soap and products.

7. Eat Garlic: While more research is needed, some studies suggest that eating garlic may help repel mosquitoes.

8. Create a Breeze: Mosquitoes are weak fliers, so a fan or a light breeze can deter them.

While it's true that some people are more attractive to mosquitoes than others, there are numerous strategies to help keep these biting pests away.

By understanding the factors that attract mosquitoes and employing natural deterrents, you can enjoy your summer evenings with that bottle of wine without the constant buzzing and itching.

Sorry Mozzies, but we’re out to get you, you pesky critters.