Why are some people mosquito magnets and others unbothered? A medical entomologist points to metabolism, body odor and mindset

Mosquitoes can track down potential hosts using the CO2 released by humans’ metabolic processes, a medical entomologist explains.

By: Jonathan Day, University of Florida, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: July 12, 2026

Words: 985

Last Updated: 1 week, 3 days ago

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By Jonathan Day, University of Florida

It’s rare to attend an outdoor party in warm weather without hearing people complain about mosquitoes. They swat away, sit in campfire smoke, cover up with blankets and eventually just give up and go indoors. On the other end of the spectrum, there are plenty of people who don’t seem bothered by mosquitoes in the slightest.

As a medical entomologist who’s worked with mosquitoes for more than 40 years, I’m …

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