If you’ve ever complained about being bitten by mosquitos, we would not be surprised if you’ve been told it’s because your blood is ‘sweeter.’ But is it true? To find out, we contacted Dr Jinendra Jain, consultant physician at Wockhardt Hospital, Mira Road, who said that it’s not blood but increased levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the environment that could significantly lead to more mosquito bites.
“Mosquitoes are generally attracted to carbon dioxide, mostly inhaled by humans and animals. Several factors can contribute to the emission of CO2. The higher carbon dioxide levels in certain areas with warmer temperatures and climate changes can create a perfect atmosphere for more mosquitoes to breed,” said Dr Jain.
Dr Mallika Motta, MD (Homeopathy), The Vital Dose Homeopathy Clinic, noted that mosquitoes have nerve cell receptors that detect carbon dioxide, allowing them to sense the air we exhale from over 30 feet away. “Mosquitoes are attracted to the carbon dioxide that humans and other animals exhale. This is one of the primary ways they locate potential hosts for their blood meals. The more carbon dioxide a person or animal emits, the more likely they are to be targeted by mosquitoes,” said Dr Motta.
While carbon dioxide is a natural byproduct of respiration, increased levels in the atmosphere due to human activities like burning fossil fuels can contribute to a higher concentration of this attractant for mosquitoes, said Dr Motta.
Apart from CO2, mosquitoes are attracted to certain compounds that are present on human skin and in sweat, noted Dr Motta. “These compounds give us a specific odour that can draw mosquitoes in. Several different compounds have been identified as being attractive to mosquitoes. Some that you may be familiar with include lactic acid and ammonia,” said Dr Motta.
People with high metabolic rates, like pregnant women and those who work out, “who generally have subnormal body temperatures,” are more prone to mosquito bites, said Dr Motta.
Does carbon dioxide attract mosquitoes? (Source: Pixabay)
While a 2019 study found that the primary mosquito vector of dengue virus preferred people with type O blood to those with other blood types, Dr Motta noted that separate research notes that experimental and laboratory data evaluating whether blood type makes one person more (or less) attractive to mosquitoes has fueled a lot of speculation, but the science is contradictory. “Instead, the researchers report that the likelihood of being a ‘mosquito magnet”’ has more to do with skin odours and microbiota than blood type,” said Dr Motta.
Taking proactive steps and following necessary precautions can help mitigate this situation.
Dr Jain listed the following:
People should rely more on renewable energy sources such as solar or hydroelectric power to reduce their dependence on fossil fuels. “Use energy-saving appliances and light bulbs in your house to reduce the excessive energy consumption,” said Dr Jain.
Remember to apply a generous layer of mosquito repellent all over your body to protect yourself from being bitten by mosquitoes.
“Immediately consult a doctor if you start to feel symptoms like fever, chills, muscle pain, vomiting, nausea, fatigue, lightheadedness, and skin rashes as it can indicate various mosquito-borne diseases,” said Dr Jain.
If a mosquito has bitten you, there are things you can do to help relieve the swelling and itch.
Dr Motta shared the following suggestions:
*Avoid scratching. Scratching can increase swelling, and it breaks your skin, putting you at risk of an infection.
*Apply a cold compress to the site, like a wet towel or cold pack, to help with swelling and itch.
*Take deeper breaths so that you avoid too much CO2 emission.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
