Tips to minimize the impact of the most quintessential nuisance when going on dive trips to some tropical areas.
Mosquito bites cause itching and discomfort, and in some cases carry diseases such as malaria.
Amid the buzzing hum of the relentless mosquito, it appears that our everyday habits may be making us more alluring to these pesky insects. In a surprising discovery, it appears that your favourite body wash may be your downfall when it comes to warding off mosquitoes.
Mosquitoes and your shower routine
A paper published in iScience highlighted a potential link between body wash and our attractiveness to mosquitoes. The study described how certain substances found in soap products increased the mosquitoes' attraction towards humans. This revelation came about during laboratory experiments in which mosquitoes to different scents, with soap odor proving to be an unexpected favorite.
An article in New Scientist further detailed this relationship, explaining how soap chemicals could alter our scent, creating a more appealing aroma for mosquitoes. The report also emphasised the selective nature of mosquitoes, drawn to specific types of soap scents, potentially making some people more attractive to mosquitoes than others.
Fragrance-free does it
Katie Westby, a disease ecologist with Tyson Research Center, recommends using fragrance-free products to reduce your attractiveness to mosquitoes. Other possible strategies include wearing long-sleeved clothing and using mosquito repellent.
