Scientists uncover how mosquitoes track your heat and zero in on humans faster

Their infrared heat-tracking powers a deadly targeting combo

New research reveals that mosquitoes can detect human body heat using infrared signals, a “hidden sense” researchers previously struggled to explain. When this thermal detection is paired with CO2 and body odors, mosquitoes become dramatically better at finding hosts. The findings could reshape mosquito control as disease-carrying species expand into new regions, strengthening public health defenses.