Actually, mosquitoes do have preferences. Lab studies have shown that about 20% of the population is more attractive to mosquitoes - and thus bitten more often.
So what attracts them? You asked about blood type, and that does matter. One study found mosquitoes landed on people with Type O blood nearly twice as often as those with Type A, while those with Type B blood fell in the middle.
Other studies have identified additional factors that influence what attracts mosquitoes. James Day, a medical entomologist at the University of Florida, told NBC News in an interview that mosquitoes use vision and scent to locate humans, and wearing colors that make you stand out may make you easier to find.
No matter what the reason, mosquito bites can be unpleasant and in areas susceptible to West Nile Virus they can be a health hazard. I think you'll find this article from the EmpowHER community very helpful for your family: Mosquitoes: What To Do When They Love You.
What do you and your family members do to avoid mosquitoes? If you have any special tips we'd love to hear from you, and we hope the information we've shared is helpful to you, your husband and your children.
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Hi Kristin and thanks for your question!
Actually, mosquitoes do have preferences. Lab studies have shown that about 20% of the population is more attractive to mosquitoes - and thus bitten more often.
So what attracts them? You asked about blood type, and that does matter. One study found mosquitoes landed on people with Type O blood nearly twice as often as those with Type A, while those with Type B blood fell in the middle.
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