Mosquito Magnets: Why Some People Draw More Bites and How to Fight Back
TL;DR Summary
Mosquito bites aren’t random: a mix of cues—carbon dioxide output, heat, moisture, and skin odors—along with genetics can make certain people more attractive to mosquitoes. Factors like exercise, alcohol consumption, clothing color, and pregnancy can increase bite risk, while location and exposure also matter. Practical protections include covering exposed skin, using tested repellents (DEET or picaridin), wearing light-colored clothing, reducing standing water around home, and using citronella or lemon eucalyptus candles in the yard; beware unproven remedies like garlic or vitamin supplements.
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