Could DEET attract mosquitoes? Study highlights unusual mosquito behavior

Mosquitoes are common across the United States, with more than 200 types of mosquitoes living in the continental United States and U.S. territories.

Most mosquitoes in the U.S. are nuisance mosquitoes that do not spread disease, but some bites can transmit mosquito-borne diseases , such as West Nile virus , Dengue fever , Chikungunya , and Zika virus .

Although present in America, the burden of these diseases is highest in tropical and subtropical areas. Prevention is often the most effective defense against mosquitoes, with public health officials recommending insect repellents containing DEET .

Typically available as liquids, lotions, or sprays, the chemical likely deters mosquitoes by interfering with their sensory receptors, making humans harder to detect and unappealing. Health experts emphasize the DEET-based repellents are safe and effective when used as directed.

Now, a new study suggests mosquitoes may be more adaptable than previously thought, and the yellow fever mosquito can learn to associate the smell of DEET with a food reward, potentially changing how the insects respond to the chemical over time.