We get a lot of questions about mosquitoes. Obviously, many of the questions have to do with mosquito bites. Mosquitoes have a reputation for spread harmful, and potentially deadly, viruses. If you have questions about mosquitoes, it is likely you’ll find them in this short list of our commonly asked mosquito questions.
Why do mosquitoes bite you?
There are a few ways to answer this question. The most important reason mosquitoes bite you is that they draw your blood. Your blood contains the nutrients a female mosquito needs to create viable eggs. Since her desire to bite is linked to reproduction, she is strongly motivated and not easily deterred.
- If you’re curious what it is about you that makes you more prone to get mosquito bites, there are several factors to consider:
- If you’re wearing black, mosquitoes can more easily target you. Mosquitoes don’t have great eyesight. They use silhouettes and contrast to help them land on you.
- If you do a workout outside, you can get more bites. Mosquitoes are attracted to the moisture of sweat, increased body temperature, and carbon dioxide emissions. These are also reasons why pregnant women are targeted.
If you enjoy a drink at an outdoor party, you can attract mosquitoes. All it takes is one beer. - Some chemicals on the skin are attractive to mosquitoes. You may naturally have more of these chemicals. There isn’t much you can do about that.
It is bad if a mosquito bites you?
Not usually. Mosquitoes aren’t born with diseases. If a mosquito hatches in your yard and you are the first person, or animal, it bites, you will not contract a disease. Since most of the mosquitoes that bite you in your yard are mosquitoes that hatched in your yard, there is a low threat. But a mosquito that contracts a disease from an animal or a person may be able to spread it to you. Endemic diseases in the United States are West Nile virus and several other viruses that cause encephalitis. Diseases that have outbreaks are Zika virus, dengue fever, chikungunya, yellow fever, malaria and more. The deadliest mosquito-borne virus in the U.S. is West Nile virus.
How many times will one mosquito bite you?
A female mosquito can bite you repeatedly. She will do so until she has gotten all the blood she needs. While this will lead to several itchy welts, it will not result in a greater risk of disease. If she isn’t infected, none of those bites will lead to symptoms.
Can mosquitoes bite through clothing?
It depends on the fabric. The mouthparts of a mosquito can push through the pores of some fabrics. We recommend putting repellent on your clothing as well as your skin to prevent mosquitoes from finding a spot to bite you through your clothing.
What smells do mosquitoes hate?
There are many smells mosquitoes hate. Some scents you may be familiar with are citronella, lemon, eucalyptus, rosemary, lavender, and peppermint. Keep in mind that a determined female mosquito won’t be deterred by these scents, especially if they’ve had time to break down on your skin. Using essential oils to ward off mosquito bites isn’t the best way to go.
How do I stop getting bitten by mosquitoes?
When you go somewhere away from your home, repellent is the best way to prevent mosquito bites. We recommend using a repellent that has DEET or picaridin. If you prefer a natural repellent, select one with oil of lemon eucalyptus.
If you want to prevent mosquito bites in your yard, the best solution is seasonal mosquito services. Mosquito treatments break the cycle of reproduction and reduce mosquito activity.
Mosquito Control In Oklahoma City
If you live in Oklahoma City, you’re in our service area. Reach out to Thunder Pest Control for effective mosquito control. Life is better without mosquitoes.
