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When it comes to mosquitoes, everyone seems to have their own ideas on how to handle them and keep them from coming back. Some swear by homemade repellents, while others rely on gadgets or natural remedies that may not be as effective as they hope.
But with mosquitoes posing health risks worldwide, what’s fact and what’s fiction can help protect you and your loved ones from their bites and associated health risks. To help decipher the truth about mosquitoes, Mosquito Joe® is here to debunk those myths and provide you with high-quality services you can rely on.
Common Mosquito Myths Debunked
There are many myths surrounding mosquitoes that can mislead people into using ineffective prevention methods. Here are some common mosquito myths to be wary of:
Myth: All Mosquitoes Carry Diseases
Not all mosquitoes carry diseases. However, some mosquitoes are capable of spreading serious diseases such as malaria, Zika, and West Nile virus. Types of mosquitoes can differ by location, so knowing which species are common in your area can help you take more specific and effective measures to lower your risk of certain illnesses.
Myth: Citronella Is All You Need to Repel Mosquitoes
Citronella products like citronella candles can offer a temporary and mild deterrent against mosquitoes, but they are not a complete solution. The scent of citronella usually fades away fast outside, making it an ineffective long-term solution for mosquitoes. Relying solely on citronella candles may leave you exposed to bites, particularly during peak mosquito season or in regions with dense mosquito populations. For more effective protection, consider using citronella in combination with other repellents, sprays, or barrier treatments.
Myth: Eating Certain Foods Can Repel Mosquitoes Naturally
There are certain fragrances you can apply to your skin, such as lavender and peppermint essential oils, to deter mosquitoes from biting you. However, there is no scientific evidence showing that eating certain foods will help naturally repel mosquitoes. On the other hand, some research suggests certain foods and beverages may make you change your body odor and attract mosquitoes. Examples include salty foods, beer, and bananas.
Myth: Bug Zappers Effectively Control Mosquitoes
Bugs are attracted to carbon dioxide and water vapor in the breath of mammals, not ultraviolet light. In fact, research shows that yards with bug zappers had higher numbers of female mosquitoes than those without bug zappers. This is because the bug zapper actually gets rid of insects that eat mosquitoes.
Myth: Mosquitoes Die After Biting A Human
Unlike some species of bees, mosquitoes do not die after biting a human. In fact, some species are known to bite multiple times throughout the night until they are full. For example, when a honey bee strikes, the barb gets stuck in the person or animal being stung, the stinger gets ripped out, and the bee dies instantly. Mosquitoes, on the other hand, pierce the skin with a proboscis or mouthpiece. When the mosquito is done feeding, it doesn’t leave the proboscis behind, so it flies away full and unharmed.
Surprising Facts About Mosquitoes
There are also many facts about mosquitoes you may not know. Learning more about their behavior and role in our environment can help you make informed decisions about mosquito control for your property.
Fact: Only Female Mosquitoes Bite
Only female mosquitoes bite, while male mosquitoes feed on nectar and plant juices. Female mosquitoes use nutrients from the blood to develop their eggs and reproduce. This means that not all mosquitoes are a threat to humans and animals, as males are typically harmless and uninterested in blood.
Fact: Mosquitoes Are Important to the Ecosystem
Although they’re often considered mere pests, mosquitoes play an important role in the ecosystem. They provide a valuable food source for various species, including birds, fish, and other insects, especially in wetland and marsh environments. Furthermore, some mosquito species contribute to pollination and support biodiversity, as they feed on flower nectar, just like bees and butterflies.
Fact: Carbon Monoxide (CO₂) Attracts Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes are able to detect the carbon dioxide (CO₂) we exhale, which is one of the primary reasons they’re drawn to humans and animals. This attraction to CO₂ is so strong that it often overrides scent-based repellents, which is why myths about certain repellents, like citronella candles, don’t always do the trick at keeping them away.
Fact: Certain Blood Types Are More Attractive to Mosquitoes
Research has found that people with Type O blood are twice as attractive to mosquitoes than those with Type A blood. Those with Type B fall in the middle. On top of that, 85% of people produce a secretion that signals what blood type they are. So, if you are Type O and a secretor, mosquitoes probably think you’re pretty tasty. You can learn more about why you are a magnet for mosquitoes here.
Fact: Mosquitoes Are Considered the Most Dangerous Animal on the Planet
When you imagine the most dangerous animal on the planet, you may immediately think of a shark, not a mosquito. While sharks only cause 10 deaths per year, mosquitoes cause 750,000 deaths a year. Mosquitoes kill by carrying a host of deadly diseases, such as malaria, West Nile virus, yellow fever and dengue fever. More than half of all mosquito-related deaths can be attributed to malaria, and most of these cases originate in sub-Saharan Africa. Dengue fever is another mosquito-borne illness that is common in Asian and Latin American countries.
Myths vs. Facts About Mosquito Bite Prevention
There are several myths about mosquito bite prevention that can lead to ineffective strategies. Learn why these myths aren’t true to better understand how to best protect yourself against mosquitoes:
- One of many common misconceptions about mosquitoes is that ultrasonic devices can repel mosquitoes, but there is no scientific evidence to support this claim.
- Another myth is that natural remedies like citronella or garlic offer full protection when, in reality, chemical repellents such as DEET are generally much more effective.
- Additionally, some people believe mosquitoes are only attracted to body odor, but in fact, they are drawn to a variety of factors, including carbon dioxide, body heat, and specific scents like lactic acid found in sweat.
- Finally, it’s a common misconception that one application of repellent will last all day, but most repellents need to be reapplied every few hours, particularly after sweating, swimming, or engaging in heavy activity.
For professional mosquito control, contact Mosquito Joe today. We’re happy to provide a free estimate and details about our range of services, such as mosquito misting and our eco-friendly options.
Mosquito Behavior: Truths Behind Their Habits
Understanding mosquito behavior is essential for preventing bites effectively. Here’s what you should know about mosquitoes:
- They aren’t only active at night. In fact, many mosquito species are most active during dawn and dusk, with some feeding throughout the day.
- Mosquitoes are attracted to humans by a variety of factors, including the carbon dioxide we exhale, body heat, and certain chemicals in sweat, like lactic acid. These scents
- Mosquitoes require water to breed, which is why they’re drawn to standing water. Common breeding sites include puddles, ponds, and even small containers like birdbaths or flowerpots.
- They are weak and slow flyers, making it difficult to fly against gusty winds or near fans.
By understanding these behaviors, you can take more effective steps to avoid mosquito bites.
Separating Myth from Reality
Understanding the facts about mosquitoes and ignoring common myths is key to effective control. Knowing what attracts them, what repels them, and which prevention methods actually work can help you make smarter choices for protecting yourself and your family. For those who want an extra layer of protection, Mosquito Joe® offers unique solutions to make outdoor spaces enjoyable again—without the nuisance of pesky mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas.
With certified and trained technicians who visit your property to apply a targeted barrier treatment, Mosquito Joe provides effective outdoor pest control to keep your yard itch-free. Plus, there are no contracts required, and your happiness is a priority with the Neighborly Done Right Promise® and our own Mosquito Joe Satisfaction Guarantee. Reach out today with any questions or concerns you may have about taking back control of your outdoor space.
This article is intended for general informational purposes only and may not be applicable to every situation. You are responsible for determining the proper course of action for your home and property. Mosquito Joe is not responsible for any damages that occur as a result of this blog content or your actions. For the most accurate guidance, contact your local Mosquito Joe location for a comprehensive, on-site assessment.
