WASHINGTON – Does it seem like you get eaten up by mosquitoes more than other people? Well, you might be right.

With mosquito season in full swing, you may fear going outside.

The Wall Street Journal reports there are certain characteristics mosquitoes seek out — and even certain people.

Heat and carbon dioxide attract skeeters. Since pregnant women and larger people exert more energy, they may be targets.

A sense of smell also helps mosquitoes find prey. And mosquitoes love human odor.

Those smells mostly come from the bacteria on your skin.

Avoiding sweaty activities and keeping skin clean with an antibacterial soap can steer mosquitoes in another direction.

And if you do get bit, of course, don’t scratch.

Check out the video below for more tips from The Wall Street Journal.