Five Common Mosquito Myths

There are many myths about mosquitoes out there…and sometimes it’s hard to know what’s true! Mosquito Hero is here to provide you with the facts to help keep you and your family safe from these often irritating critters. 

Myth #1: Mosquitoes die after biting you

Many people believe this to be true, likely because this applies to bee stings. However, this is not the case with mosquitoes! Mosquitoes need to suck your blood in order to produce more baby mosquitoes. It is a vital part of the reproductive process.

To learn more about this process, read our blog here.

Myth #2: The more they suck, the bigger the welt

The reason your body reacts to mosquitoes bites the way it does is that your body is trying to fight off the substance. When mosquitoes latch onto your skin and begin sucking your blood, they simultaneously release saliva which gets injected into your bloodstream. From here, your body tries to fight off this unknown substance which sometimes results in big, red bumps. 

Myth #3: Wearing thin clothes will still protect you from bites

Mosquitoes can still latch onto your skin if you wear delicate clothing such as silk, spandex, and light cotton. Although mosquitoes prefer bare skin, it is possible to still get “bitten” while outside in these fabrics.

Myth #4: Mosquitoes prefer certain blood types

Mosquitoes are not attracted to your blood type. The way mosquitoes detect you is from carbon dioxide. When you step outside and start talking or breathing heavily, mosquitoes are able to detect you from far away and make their way towards you. If you are someone that gets bitten more frequently than others, it may be because you give off more carbon dioxide.

Myth #5: Citronella protects you against mosquitoes

Yes, citronella does have some effect on deterring mosquitoes, but it is not a sure thing. If you happen to be outside on a breezy day, for example, the smell of citronella may disappear and change paths. Also, it may not be strong enough to withstand the amount of carbon dioxide being produced in the same vicinity.

There you have it, 5 common mosquito myths that you may have at one point heard about. Mosquito Hero is here to give you the facts! If you want to take back your yard from mosquitoes, request a free quote today!