Researchers found that depending on the soap you use, it could make mosquitoes more or less attracted to you.
Researchers at Virginia Tech tested four soaps, having volunteers wash one forearm sleeve with soap and leaving the other unwashed.“Then we would look at how many mosquitoes would land on either cup to quantify their preference,” said Clement Vinauger, an assistant professor at Virginia Tech. The soaps tested were popular options chosen by Americans.
In three of the four soaps tested, the soap increased the attractiveness to mosquitoes. These soaps were fruity or flowery scented.SEE MORE: Cases Of West Nile Virus Rising In Some Parts Of The U.S. "There are other studies in literature showing that coconut oil derivative chemicals ... they tend to repel a lot of blood feeding insects," Vinauger said.
Researchers said there is still more work to be done, including more soap tests on more volunteers to determine patterns with certain scents. Each person has different body chemicals as well, which is a factor.So if you are prone to mosquito bites, what can you do? Researchers say soap can’t replace traditional repellents, but you can try changing what soap you use.Soap is only one aspect. Other scented products, like laundry detergent, could also play a role.
Mosquitoes spread a number of viruses including Zika, malaria and West Nile. Severe cases of mosquito-borne diseases can lead to death.Trending stories at Scrippsnews.com
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