![]() ![]() Within minutes to seconds after a sting, sensitive individuals may develop flushing, itching, swelling of the face and throat, difficulty breathing, or loss of consciousness. The most serious type of this reaction is anaphylaxis, a life-threatening allergic reaction. Up to 16 percent of people stung by a fire ant may develop a diffuse allergic reaction, however, according to a Georgia study. Medications, such as oral steroids or antibiotics, may be necessary. Larger local reactions or those that continue to ooze may require medical evaluation. It is important to keep the area clean and not scratch or break the blisters. Isolated local symptoms are managed with ice, anti-inflammatory medications, topical steroids and antihistamines. If stung, the area should then be washed with soap and cool water. Fortunately, these reactions are self-limited and do not predispose to life-threatening reactions. These sores rupture over two to three days and are accompanied with itching, pain and swelling. Within 24 hours, "pimple-like" areas filled with pus will form. The sting leaves a raised red welt, which typically subsides within 30 to 60 minutes. The most common reaction to a fire ant sting is intense itching and a burning sensation (fire-like) at the site of stings. Stings are most common and most painful during the summer when ants have the largest amount of stored venom. In fact, a single ant stings an average of three times before removal. Unlike honeybees, fire ants can continue to sting a victim numerous times. The fire ant uses its very strong jaws to latch onto the skin and then uses its sharp stinger to inject venom. Recent data suggests that up to 89 percent of all people in ant-infested areas may be stung each year.Ĭontrary to popular belief, fire ants produce their venomous reactions by stinging, not biting. Their sheer abundance makes it very difficult for us to avoid.įire ants will attack anything that disturbs them without warning. A well-established colony may contain as many as 500,000 ants. The temperate climate of Northeast Florida makes for an excellent home for these insects.įire ants build their colonies in dome-shaped mounds of soil that can reach 3 feet across and up to 18 inches in height. They also continue to spread north and have been found as far north as Virginia. Since then, the range of the fire ant has expanded throughout most of the southern United States. They were accidentally "imported" from South America around the 1930s. The imported fire ant ( Solenopsis invicta) is not native to the United States. While often considered just a pesky insect, the fire ant can actually be the cause of life-threatening reactions in certain individuals. One of those tiny creatures we frequently encounter is the fire ant. ![]() It is one of the most magical times of the year.Įxcept … for the tiny "friends" with which we share our lawn and fields. Adults are diligently mowing lawns and landscaping flower beds. Everywhere around us we see visible signs of summer.Ĭhildren are playing on sports fields and playgrounds. ![]()
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