Is It True That Mosquitoes Prefer Blood Type O? IPB University Professor Reveals the Facts
Mosquitoes are often the subject of various myths believed by the public. One of the most popular is the belief that mosquitoes prefer people with blood type O.
Prof drh Upik Kesumawati DVM, of the School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences (SKHB) at IPB University, explains that this belief has a scientific basis, although it does not mean that people with other blood types are immune to mosquito bites.
In the IPB Podcast aired on the IPB TV YouTube channel, Prof Upik explained that a 2004 study in Japan found that mosquitoes more frequently feed on the blood of individuals with blood type O compared to those with other blood types.
“People with blood type O have higher levels of volatile compounds compared to those with blood type A. For example, they produce more lactic acid or carbon dioxide (CO2), making them easier for mosquitoes to detect,” she said.
Nevertheless, she emphasized that everyone is still at risk of being bitten by mosquitoes. “Anyone can be bitten, but there is a tendency for blood type O to be preferred,” she added.
Not All Mosquitoes Suck Blood
Prof Upik also clarified the misconception that blood is a mosquito’s primary food source. She explained that blood is actually needed by female mosquitoes for reproduction and egg maturation.
“The blood sucked by mosquitoes is needed for reproduction, not as their primary food source,” she explained.
She added that not all mosquitoes suck blood. Only female mosquitoes need blood to lay eggs, while male mosquitoes derive energy from plant sap and flower nectar.
Dark Colors and the HIV Transmission Myth
In addition to blood type, the color of clothing also influences mosquitoes’ attraction. According to Prof Upik, dark-colored clothing tends to absorb heat, making the body warmer and more attractive to mosquitoes.
“Mosquitoes prefer warm and humid conditions. That’s why people wearing dark clothing are more frequently targeted by mosquitoes,” she said.
She also debunked the myth that mosquitoes can transmit HIV/AIDS. According to her, even though mosquitoes can feed on the blood of people with HIV, the virus does not replicate inside the mosquito’s body and dies quickly, so it cannot be transmitted back to humans.
To prevent mosquito bites, Prof Upik encourages the implementation of the 3M Plus program, draining, covering, also recycling items that could potentially become mosquito breeding grounds, and recommends the use of mosquito repellent lotion, covering clothing, and mosquito nets. (Fj) (IAAS/PRP)
