Mosquito Bite Preference Tied to Body Odor and Alcohol Consumption

Scientists have confirmed that mosquitoes are not indiscriminate biters; they are attracted by a combination of body heat, carbon‑dioxide, and especially body odour. Studies of volunteers show that people who have consumed alcohol, which raises skin temperature and CO₂ output, become significantly more attractive to female mosquitoes. Research on 42 women identified that those in the second trimester of pregnancy and those producing higher levels of a sebum‑derived compound (1‑octen‑3‑ol) drew more bites.

The findings underline that about 100 of the 3,500 known mosquito species bite humans, some transmitting diseases such as malaria, dengue and Zika. Experts advise protective measures like covering skin, using repellents and avoiding heavy alcohol intake to reduce the risk of bites.