India, May 29 -- A new study published in the Journal of Experimental Biology suggests that mosquitoes can actually learn to be attracted to DEET, a common ingredient used in insect repellents.
DEET, also known by its chemical name, N-diethyl-meta-toluamide, is widely used around the world to protect people from mosquito bites. The UK Health Security Agency recommends repellents containing 50% DEET as one of the best ways to prevent mosquito bites.
The new research, led by Claudio Lazzari from the University of Tours in France, found that mosquitoes can be trained to connect the smell of DEET with getting a blood meal.
"For a long time, it was believed that repellants worked solely because of their chemical properties, either by being to...