I am 40 years old. I am allergic to mosquito bites. This year there seems to be something different

Hi Tracy,

This is not my area of expertise but I will tell you that there are several different species and genera (plural for genus) in this country and around the world.

Three genera make up the majority mosquitoes in the US.

The predominant type in my area of the country (Chicago), this summer, is the Aedes, often associated with flooding waters. These mosquitoes are known for traveling long distances from their breeding area.

The Aedes mosquito is not the predominant carrier of the West Nile virus (Culex is).

Here are two websites that go into more detail about these blood sucking insects.

Different types of mosqutioes

All about the mosquito

You may be seeing a different species or genus of insect in your area (compared to pass years). It is also possible that your sensitivity to the mosquito saliva has changed over time.

You should review (on one of the above sites) steps you can take to protect yourself as well as treat mosquito bites.

Good Luck,

J. Thompson