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GET TO KNOW MOSQUITOES
- SPECIES
- They do not all behave the same way.
- WHEN?
- During the day, evening or night, depending on the species.
- WHY DO THEY BITE SOME PEOPLE MORE?
- They use many signals, including CO₂, heat and individual skin odour.
- WHY DO BITES ITCH?
- Because of the body’s response to mosquito saliva.
WHY IT MATTERS FOR YOUR HEALTH
When infected, some mosquito species can act as vectors for pathogens such as West Nile virus, dengue, chikungunya or Zika. For example, the pathogens carried by certain Aedes species differ from those carried by certain Culex species. Risk depends on the species, region and current circulation; not every mosquito carries disease, and it should not be inferred that all these diseases are widespread in Türkiye. The presence of Aedes in a region does not, by itself, indicate disease transmission.
WHO — Vector-borne diseases ↗There are many mosquito species worldwide; the mosquitoes we encounter do not all share the same habits or active hours. Groups such as Culex and Aedes can differ in their behaviour. Protection should therefore not be limited to the evening.
It is female mosquitoes that feed on human and animal blood. Finding us, feeding and triggering a skin reaction are separate stages. Both the species’ behaviour and individual characteristics can affect this experience.
Do mosquitoes bite only at night?
No. While some species are mainly active in the evening and at night, Aedes species can also bite during the day. Your surroundings and the species you encounter affect when protection is needed.
What is the Asian tiger mosquito?
Aedes albopictus is known as the Asian tiger mosquito. It is one of the invasive mosquito species that have spread in Türkiye in recent years. Recognisable by its black-and-white stripes, it can also be active during the day and can adapt to small collections of water in urban environments. Aedes aegypti is a different species; the two names should not be used interchangeably.
Why do they bite some people more?
Mosquitoes do not rely on a single characteristic to find people. Exhaled carbon dioxide, body heat, skin odour and chemical compounds on the skin may all play a role. Individual biological differences can make some people more attractive to mosquitoes. It is not accurate to attribute this to a single cause that applies to everyone.
Why do mosquito bites itch and swell?
A female mosquito introduces saliva into the skin while feeding on blood. The body’s immune response to substances in the saliva can cause raised bumps, redness and itching; some people develop larger swellings. Reactions vary from person to person. Consult a healthcare professional for severe or widespread symptoms, or symptoms suggesting infection.
Why are there mosquitoes in the home?
They can enter through open doors and windows, and suitable breeding sites may exist in or near the home. For some species, even small amounts of water in plant saucers, buckets, rainwater containers or unused items can be enough. Regularly empty and clean these containers, and check insect screens to address both breeding sites and entry points.
