How Do Mosquitoes Bite?
WouterGetting bitten by a mosquito is annoying and sometimes even dangerous. The sting causes itchiness and swelling. Using an antihistamine cream can help relieve itchiness. If you have an allergy, you should consult a doctor.
Female mosquitoes use a special mouth part to penetrate the skin. The proboscis is a long, complex organ that is used to suck up blood. It is like a straw with a sharp end. The mouth part burrows into the blood vessel.
The female mosquito then injects saliva into the wound. This saliva contains anticoagulant proteins to prevent blood from clotting. It also contains enzymes that dull pain. This type of biting is only used by female mosquitoes. Some species require a blood meal to produce eggs.
Depending on the type of mosquito, a bite may cause redness, soreness, or a larger area of swelling. You should contact a doctor if you feel unwell after being bitten. If the bite is severe, you may develop a high fever. Other warning signs include body aches and a severe headache.
After a bite, a person’s immune system will attack the allergen at the bite site. This can be especially damaging if the mosquito is carrying disease. Itching and inflammation are also possible.
In addition to ingesting blood, the female mosquito may also lay eggs in standing water. Some species prefer to be near human dwellings. The life cycle of a mosquito depends on temperature, land cover, and water. During the warm months, mosquitoes are more likely to bite.
