The Loop
Buggin' out over mosquitoes? A new study might explain why
For years scientists have said that mosquitoes are more attracted to certain people because of their, well, body odor. But a recent study published in PLOS One said that it had more to do with DNA than a specific smell. The paper concluded that 62 percent to 83 percent of a person's attractiveness to mosquitoes is determined by their skin cells (DNA).
This is interesting news considering the increasing amount of encephalitis cases—such as West Nile virus—reported in the U.S. Golfers are among the highest-risk groups in America thanks to their prolonged exposure to areas where mosquitoes breed and live. So if you seem to be the guy or girl in your golf group that gets bit more than his or her fair share, there are three things you can do to reduce your odds on contracting a disease:
2. If you want a natural protector, go with lemon oil of eucalyptus. This plant byproduct is registered by the EPA for use as a repellent.
__3. Thick clothing helps.__And using a product that emits a scent from citronella oil can't hurt. Some companies sell bracelets infused with citronella oil such as Mosquitno ($3.99, mosquitnoband.com). Keep in mind that a study from North Dakota State University showed that the oil was only effective as a repellent in closed-off spaces.
Ron Kaspriske is the fitness editor of Golf Digest.