Summer bites are the last thing you want when you get out there and enjoy the outdoors. Do you want to be less attractive to mosquitoes? It is crucial to avoid the summer bites to prevent diseases and unsightly bite marks. Read on and find out how to stay bite-free this summer.
Avoid Alcoholic Beverages
Scientists found out that mosquitoes find you more easily if you drink alcoholic beverages. Mosquitoes see the heat your body releases. Your heat signature becomes more prominent when you drink alcohol. The rise in your body heat makes you a moving target for mosquitoes. Avoid alcohol so you can avoid the mosquito radar. Drink lemonade or water instead.
Be Aware in and Near the Water
Water may offer refuge to humans during these hot months. It is also a haven for mosquitoes. Female mosquitoes need water to lay their eggs. But they need stagnant water to do this. They can lay eggs in still water contained in a bottle cap. Even waterlogged garden soil is enough to support the eggs. It is best to clean around your yard and remove all stagnant water. This habit can help reduce the mosquito population in and around your home.
Stay Cool
Research shows that heat activates odor. Human bodies emit carbon dioxide. Hot weather intensifies the smell of this gas. The fact is that mosquitoes can detect carbon dioxide from at least 60 meters or 200 feet away. Summer workouts can produce intense odors and sweat. Mosquitoes can detect the carbon dioxide and seek you out.
Stay cool as much as possible during the hot months. Drink cold drinks. Keep a fan on you. Stay in an air-conditioned room.
Stay Stinky
Studies show that skipping showers can help keep mosquitoes away. Being rancid increases the bacterial populations on the skin. This event makes you less appetizing to mosquitoes. Skipping showers may offend other people, but it can help prevent mosquito-borne diseases. Also, skip fragrances and various scented products. The exciting smells attract mosquitoes. However, do not forget to clean your feet. Research reveals that the bacteria on the feet entice mosquitoes.
Determine Blood Types
Scientists explain that mosquitoes do not hone in on your physical characteristics to track you down. These insects do not have favorite people to snack on. Blood type O is the favorite drink of mosquitoes. They prefer it to types A, B, and AB.
Use the Right Repellent
An FDA-approved insect repellent is ideal for managing mosquito populations. Proper use of these products can help keep you safe from summer bites. Apply the repellent to every exposed area of your body. Even the tiniest part of unprotected skin can leave you susceptible to summer bites.
Use a Net
It is ideal to cover an outdoor living area with a mosquito net. This simple addition can protect hikers, campers, or gardeners.
Keep a Fan on You
Mosquitoes are lightweight and very tiny. Their wings are not strong. They cannot fly against strong gusts of wind. That is why you don’t see them during windy or breezy days. If it is not windy, turn on a fan and keep it on you. That way, you won’t get summer bites.
Genetics Has Something to Do with Mosquito Attraction?
A group of scientists believes that genes cause one’s vulnerability to mosquito bites. Some people produce chemical mosquito attractants. Steroids, uric acid, and cholesterol are more prominent on the surface of their skin. Some researchers believe genetics plays a part in why mosquitoes want to feed on human blood.
Summer bites can happen if you are not careful and mindful. Warm weather activates many odors, including your own. Protect yourself and your family this summer. Be safe from bites and mosquito-borne diseases.