National Parks Traveler has been having a terrible time with mosquitoes and put out a call for submissions for favorite repellent. No one has responded as of yet, but we may have some bad news for him and anyone who has a problem shaking the pests. It may be just plain genetics. Similar to the study we blogged about a few weeks ago that blamed risk taking in part on genetics, the latest finding from the world of the gene says that short of changing your whole genetic makeup, you may just be up a river without repellent, or as they say in our business, SOL:
While researchers have yet to pinpoint what mosquitoes consider an ideal hunk of human flesh, the hunt is on. "There's a tremendous amount of research being conducted on what compounds and odors people exude that might be attractive to mosquitoes," says Joe Conlon, PhD, technical advisor to the American Mosquito Control Association. With 400 different compounds to examine, it's an extremely laborious process. "Researchers are just beginning to scratch the surface," he says.
Scientists do know that genetics account for a whopping 85% of our susceptibility to mosquito bites. They've also identified certain elements of our body chemistry that, when found in excess on the skin's surface, make mosquitoes swarm closer.
Though personally, we don't know what all the fuss is about. We've got two words, 100% DEET. Works like a charm for us. Via WebMd.
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