Imagine this: It’s a balmy Maltese evening in Msida, the sun has just set, and the air is filled with the hum of activity from the nearby yacht marina. You’re sitting on your balcony, enjoying the view, when suddenly, you notice a cloud of mosquitoes descending upon you, while your neighbour, just a few metres away, remains blissfully unbitten. Why is it that some of us seem to be mosquito magnets, while others can enjoy a peaceful evening bite-free?

Malta, with its Mediterranean climate and abundance of standing water, is a haven for mosquitoes. The most common species here are the Culex pipiens and the Culex modestus, both of which can transmit diseases like West Nile virus and malaria (though the latter is not currently present in Malta). Understanding why some people attract more mosquitoes can help us better protect ourselves and our families.

Mosquitoes are attracted to a combination of factors, including body heat, carbon dioxide, sweat, and certain chemicals in our skin and breath. Here are a few reasons why some people might be more appealing to these tiny vampires:

• Body Heat and Carbon Dioxide: Mosquitoes are heat-seeking missiles. The more heat you emit (like after exercise or in a fever), the more attractive you are. Similarly, the more carbon dioxide you exhale (which is more when you’re active or breathing heavily), the more mosquitoes you’ll attract.
• Sweat and Body Odour: Mosquitoes are drawn to certain chemicals in sweat and body odour, such as ammonia, lactic acid, and certain acids found in sweat. Some people produce more of these chemicals than others, making them more appealing to mosquitoes.
• Blood Type and Metabolism: Some studies suggest that mosquitoes prefer certain blood types (like Type O) and are more attracted to people with faster metabolisms. This is because these factors can make blood vessels closer to the skin’s surface, making it easier for mosquitoes to find a feeding spot.

There are plenty of old wives’ tales about what attracts mosquitoes. In Malta, you might hear that they’re drawn to dark clothing, floral perfumes, or even certain foods. While these factors might play a minor role, they’re not the main attractions. Mosquitoes are primarily guided by the factors mentioned above.

However, there’s one Maltese myth that might have some truth to it: mosquitoes are said to be more attracted to people who have recently eaten garlic. While there’s no scientific evidence to support this, it’s possible that the strong smell of garlic could mask the usual chemicals that mosquitoes use to find a host, making it harder for them to locate a feeding spot.

Now that we know what makes us tasty to mosquitoes, what can we do to protect ourselves? Here are some tips tailored to Maltese residents:

• Use mosquito repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. These are the most effective ingredients in repellents and are widely available in Malta.
• Wear long sleeves and pants, especially at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active. Light-coloured clothing can also help reflect heat, making you less appealing to mosquitoes.
• Install mosquito screens on your windows and doors to keep them out of your home. This is especially important in Malta, where our homes can be quite open to the elements.
• Eliminate standing water around your home, as this is where mosquitoes breed. Check your roof, balconies, and even plant pots for any water that might be collecting.

Remember, while mosquitoes can be a nuisance, they can also transmit serious diseases. It’s important to take their presence seriously and do what we can to protect ourselves and our families.

So, the next time you’re enjoying a Maltese sunset and you notice a cloud of mosquitoes heading your way, you’ll know why they’ve chosen you as their target. And now you know how to send them packing!