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Mosquitoes are indeed more attracted to some individuals than others, a phenomenon scientists are increasingly deciphering through the complex chemical signals humans emit. This isn't a misconception; mosquitoes possess finely-tuned receptors that help them select targets based on a combination of sensory cues.

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It's not a misconception -- mosquitoes are attracted to some people more than others.

Frederic Simard, a medical entomologist at France's Institute of Research for Development, explained that while mosquitoes are attracted to certain people, "we are not all magnets all the time." The primary signals include the smell and heat radiating from our bodies, along with the carbon dioxide we exhale. "We have known for over 100 years that mosquitoes are attracted by the carbon dioxide that we exhale -- this is the first signal that triggers their behaviour" from a distance, noted Swedish scientist Rickard Ignell.

As mosquitoes approach within about 10 meters, they begin to detect our body odor, which, in combination with carbon dioxide, becomes an even stronger attractant. Closer still, body temperature and humidity further enhance a person's appeal. However, popular theories suggesting mosquitoes prefer specific blood types have been scientifically refuted, according to Simard. Similarly, skin, eye, or hair color are not determining factors.

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But we are not all magnets all the time.

Instead, body odor is paramount. "A soup of molecules produced by our microbiota is more -- or less -- appealing to mosquitoes," Simard stated. Humans release hundreds of different odorous compounds, and researchers are identifying which ones are most attractive. In a recent study by Ignell involving Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, scientists identified 27 compounds mosquitoes detect out of a possible 1,000.

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We have known for over 100 years that mosquitoes are attracted by the carbon dioxide that we exhale -- this is the first signal that triggers their behaviour.

One surprising finding was the significant role of a compound called "1-octen-3-ol," or mushroom alcohol, which is produced by the breakdown of skin oil sebum. Even a small increase in this compound made individuals more attractive to mosquitoes. The study also noted that drinking beer can increase a person's attractiveness to these insects.

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Within around 10 metres, 'mosquitoes will start detecting our odour, and in combination with carbon dioxide,' this attracts them even more.