Cover image via whyfiles.orgThey say that in life there are two things that's constant. Death and taxes. But they left out one important thing: MOSQUITOES.
Image via Weshalljoinourhouses/Reddit
No matter what we try to do, mosquitoes will ALWAYS find a way to come back and annoy humans. It's their life mission.
Image via Paramount Pictures/BuzzFeed
In a tropical country like Malaysia, we dread it when it's too hot or when it's raining. Because we all know, that's when those pests come out to hunt.
After all, they ARE the world's deadliest animal
On another note, does anyone notice how snails kill more people compared to sharks?
Image via Dailymail
For as long as we could remember, Malaysians (or anyone living in this part of the world) plan their lives, activities and destinations around 'bloody' questions like, "Will I get bitten by mosquitoes there?"
That's why we get a little paranoid about…
1. The outdoors, basically. Nothing beats being out and about in the sun, until a horde of uninvited guests decide to tag along…
The hot and humid weather makes us sweat and perspire easily which sets the perfect conditions for mosquitoes to appear. According to a study by the Smithsonian, **"mosquitoes find victims at closer range by smelling the lactic acid, uric acid, ammonia and other substances expelled via their sweat, and are also attracted to people with higher body temperatures."**
Living in Malaysia with its amazing [islands](http://says.com/my/seismik/tempat-dengan-nama-pelik-tapi-cantik) and beaches means there's a high chance we're off on countless outdoor adventures. Also, who can resist picturesque outdoor weddings and the romantic photos they result in? But unfortunately, there's a small price to pay and that's the dreaded mosquito.
Image via Bride Story
2. Marathons, hash runs. You can outrun other people, but once you stop, be prepared to become a mosquito buffet.
Just like outdoor [weddings](http://says.com/my/lifestyle/quirky-wedding-themes), exercising outdoors makes you more susceptible to mosquito bites. **Because strenuous exercise increases the buildup of lactic acid and heat in your body, it makes you highly attractive to the mosquitoes.**
Meanwhile, genetic factors influence the amount of uric acid and other substances naturally emitted by each person, making some people more easily found by mosquitoes than others.
3. Climbing bukits and jungle trekking. The hills are alive with the sounds of mosquitoessssss.
Ever wondered why forests and jungles are full of mosquitoes? Besides their conducive environment such as stagnant waters and nesting spots, mosquitoes are attracted to carbon dioxide which is often exhaled by wild animals.
Image via Tumblr
4. Carnivals, sports events, or a colourful tea themed party. If you wear colours such as red, black, or blue, the mosquito will come for you.
5. Bars, clubs, wineries. Even your gang's favourite hawker stall for a cold beer or two is not safe. Mosquitoes are actually attracted to alcohol!
"What should I do?"
There are a lot of products out in the market, but make sure that the personal mosquito repellents you buy are safe on the skin and approved by a regulatory board such as the Pesticide Board of Malaysia
It's true that mosquitoes have a grip on our lives, and it 'sucks' to get paranoid about dengue so often.
Get your mosquito-combating plan ready; it's time to live life.
Whether you're looking to relax at a beach, or blow some steam by running, it's time to be liberated from being annoyed by mosquitoes.
