Body odor and smelly feet increase risk of dengue infection

August 23^rd, 2013 (InsideCostaRica.com) Body odor is one of the factors that may increase the chance of being bitten by the mosquito that carries the dengue virus, according to former Minister of Health, Maria Luisa Avila.

“A person who does not have good personal hygiene and smells strongly of sweat is more attractive to mosquitos,” she said.

Sweaty, smelly feet should also cause concern.  “The smell of sweat on dirty feet can be attractive.  In fact, the most common places where mosquitos bite are from the knees down,” Avila added.

In addition to body odor, the former minister said that mosquitos are attracted to dark clothing and perfumes.

Drinking liquor can also attract mosquitos, as it increases the exhalation of CO2, which mosquitos find attractive.

Avila also mentioned that mosquitos prefer to feed between 6-8 a.m. and 5-7 p.m.

The number of dengue cases in Costa Rica has skyrocketed over last year, forcing Costa Rican health authorities to issue an alert over the situation.

Dengue has killed at least 26 people in Central America this year.