Mosquito Facts
How you can reduce bites
Did you know that mosquitoes belong to the fly family? Mosquito means “little fly” in Spanish. Unlike house flies, mosquitoes have scales on their wings. Only the females have a long proboscis suitable for piercing the skin and sucking blood; the males do not. The primary food for both males and females is the nectar of flowers.
Despite their enjoyment of flowers, mosquitoes can be an annoying problem for humans. Their bites are irritating and occasionally lead to allergic reactions or local infections. Mosquitoes are also carriers of many infectious diseases. West Nile virus, malaria, yellow fever and several kinds of encephalitis are some of the systemic infections caused by their bites.
Mosquito attractants
Mosquitoes find their prey by seeing movement, detecting infra-red radiation from warm bodies or sensing certain chemicals at up to 35 meters. They are especially attracted to carbon dioxide and lactic acid. Bigger people produce more carbon dioxide and lactic acid, making them more attractive to mosquitoes. Physically active or fidgeting people also make more chemical attractants like carbon dioxide and lactic acid. Movement increased mosquito biting up to 50 percent in some studies. In addition, smelly feet are especially attractive to certain types of mosquitoes.
Warding off bites
Under what circumstances are large numbers of mosquitoes found? Primarily, where that there is fresh water. “Even the smallest of containers that can collect water can breed hundreds to thousands of mosquitoes,” says the American Mosquito Control Association. “They don’t need much water to lay their eggs (bottles, buckets, overturned garbage can lids, etc.)”
Here are the Association’s recommendations for cutting down on mosquito bites1:
Drain any water standing in tires, tarps, pool covers, children’s toys and containers or lids.
Clean roof gutters and turn over boats and canoes.
Clean pet water dishes regularly.
Change the water in bird baths at least once weekly.
Repair leaky outdoor faucets.
Wear light colored clothing, preferably with long sleeves and pants.
Avoid wearing perfume since it is an attractant.
Also avoid drinking beer or eating Limburger cheese when in mosquito country.
Use a large fan to make it more difficult for mosquitos to fly toward you.
Avoid shady spots where mosquitoes prefer resting.
Schedule your outdoor activities to avoid dawn and dusk when mosquitos are more active.
Consider using an insect repellent such as DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Read the directions carefully before applying.
This newsletter is for educational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice or treatment; before adhering to any recommendations in this newsletter consult your healthcare provider.
American Mosquito Control Association. www.mosquito.org
Thank you, this is so helpful.