Mosquito Bites and Blood Type? Reasons Mosquitoes Bite Some People More Than Others
Did you know that mosquitoes have a type? Mosquitoes will bite some people more often than others.
You might be wondering, “Why me?”
You’re not alone. Our technicians from Vulcan Termite & Pest Control Inc. have seen it time and time again: mosquito-afflicted neighborhoods where half the residents are merely annoyed by mosquitoes landing on them, while the other families are practically mosquito magnets—miserable, covered in itchy, inflamed bites from head-to-toe.
There are a few reasons why mosquitoes bite some people more than others. If you notice that you get bitten more often than your friends or family, keep reading to learn more about mosquito bites and how your blood type can affect your susceptibility.
Bacteria On Your Skin
Research has shown that certain types of bacteria reside on human skin, which invites mosquitoes to bite. When these bacteria mix with sweat, they create a distinct odor that makes your skin more appealing to the mosquito, increasing your chances of getting bitten.
Since mosquitoes are most active during the summer season, as temperatures rise, so does mosquito activity. That’s why mosquitoes are more likely to bite ankles and feet, as these areas tend to foster the build-up of bacteria.
Breathing (No, Seriously)
Mosquitoes hunt down their meals by following the scent of carbon dioxide. When we exhale, we release carbon dioxide. Mosquitoes have a maxillary palp organ that allows them to track CO2 emissions from over 160 feet away. Those of us who exhale more often are more likely to get bitten by mosquitoes.
Pregnant Women Beware
Studies have shown that pregnant women get double the mosquito bites. The likely explanation for this is the excessive carbon dioxide they exhale while pregnant (roughly 21% more) and their higher body temperatures. Between more carbon dioxide and increased body temperatures, pregnant women are walking mosquito targets!
Mosquito Bites and Blood Type
Mosquitoes prefer certain blood types over others, which explains the connection between mosquito bites and blood type. Certain blood types are known to be more attractive to mosquitoes than others.
For example, Type O blood is twice as attractive to mosquitoes as Type A blood. Mosquitoes feed off the proteins in our blood, so it’s no wonder they’re more prone to choose the most protein-rich options.
Some people secrete chemical signals called antigens that give off their blood type, beckoning nearby bloodsuckers. Only about ⅕ of the population doesn’t secrete blood type antigens, making them less likely to be bitten. So, most of us are in this together.
Sipping Into Summer
In the summertime, many adults enjoy drinking an ice-cold beer at the pool, lake, or even in the comfort of their backyards on a nice warm day. One study has shown that a single 12-ounce beer makes you more appealing to mosquito bites due to the increased amounts of ethanol in your sweat and increased body temperature.
Scientists believe these to be possible causes, but no direct correlation has been revealed. It remains a mystery!
Born to be Bitten
Experts posit that underlying genetic factors make up 85% of the variability between people susceptible to mosquitoes and those who are not. Mosquito bites and blood type might be among the most popular factors; however, many other variables may contribute to why you were born for mosquitoes to bite.
So, if you are prone to being bitten by mosquitoes, you may have your parents to thank.
Questions About Mosquitoes?
No matter why mosquitoes bite you, nobody wants them around. At Vulcan Termite & Pest Control Inc., we offer mosquito solutions that go beyond bug spray.
Studies have shown that mosquitoes can become immune to many over-the-counter sprays. Whether you’re trying to prevent the bites before they happen or need an infestation handled, we have year-round solutions for you!
Call (205) 663-4200 or contact us online today to keep your home mosquito-free this year!
Make your reservations early to receive a whole year (April – October) of mosquito control service for only $490.00!