Why Do Mosquitoes Like Me So Much?

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CLEVELAND - August 20^th is World Mosquito Day.

If you’ve ever noticed, those annoying little critters seem to like some people more than others.

So, why is that?

“We know that mosquitoes are attracted to body heat, and then our carbon dioxide, our exhalation signature. Those are two big factors,” said Christopher Bazzoli, MD, emergency medicine physician for Cleveland Clinic. “A third is actually the kind of odor that we emit. And unfortunately, we're not really able to control this much ourselves. It's kind of based in genetics as well as the combination of bacteria that are normally living on our skin.”

Dr. Bazzoli said there are some changes you can make, like wearing loose clothing as well as bug repellent, reducing your alcohol intake, and avoiding areas where there is standing water.

Mosquitoes are attracted to standing water and need it to breed.

If you do wind up getting bit, he said to be sure to wash the bite with warm soapy water.

You can use ice to help with the inflammation.

For itchiness, he recommends using an over-the-counter itch cream or taking a non-drowsy antihistamine.

It’s also very important that you don’t scratch the bite.

“The more that we scratch and open up that skin, the higher risk of getting an infection that comes in behind it,” said Dr. Bazzoli. “So, if you're a person that can't leave it alone, some of that anti-itch cream can be really helpful and then maybe put a band aid over it so you can’t scratch it.”

If you’re planning to travel, Dr. Bazzoli recommends checking the CDC’s website for any advisories related to mosquito-borne diseases.