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Americas Most Dangerous Ant

Black and red imported fire ants were mistakenly introduced to the United States in the 1930s, via cargo ships docked in Mobile, Alabama. Nearly a century later, these ants have efficiently established colonies in at least 15 states. While most ant species are a mere nuisance, fire ants can be deadly.

The Fire Ant Sting

Highly aggressive, fire ants will swarm and attack to protect their homes against perceived dangers. This includes you, your pet or your child walking too close to their mounds (which your yard may be infested with). When a fire ant attacks, it bites onto the skin with it’s mandibles and stings it’s victim continuously. One sting is a rare occurrence – fire ants attack in swarms, meaning that victims can be left with dozens or hundreds of stings.

The sting of a fire ant injects venom and causes intense pain that lasts a few minutes. After the pain subsides, it is followed by severe itching and burning sensation that continues over the next few days. Red welts quickly appear at the site of the sting and later form into pus filled blisters. Excessive scratching of the welts may lead to secondary infection.

While most individuals will recover from this painful encounter in a few days, more severe reactions are possible. This increases with the number of stings and risk factors, such as being elderly, young or prone to allergic reactions.

Signs of a life-threatening reaction include:

  • Swelling of the affected area
  • Nausea, vomiting and/or diarrhea
  • Tightness in the chest and difficulty breathing
  • Swelling of the tongue or throat
  • Confusion or loss of consciousness

Emergency medical attention should be sought immediately if any of the above reactions occur.

Remedies for Fire Ant Sting

For those with a mild reaction, these home remedies can reduce the pain of fire ant stings:

  • Ice or a cold compress applied for up to 20 minutes can reduce swelling.
  • Hydrocortisone cream may be applied on the skin to relieve itching.
  • An antihistamine can be taken to reduce localized allergic reactions.
  • For those that have been scratching, an over the counter antibiotic ointment or cream can reduce chances of infection.

The itching and welts should resolve within a week. It is recommended that those with serious reactions carry an EPIpen in case of a future encounter with fire ants.

What to Do About Fire Ant Infestations

The best way to avoid the dangers of a fire ant sting is to remove any signs of infestation from your property. Fire ants make large, distinctive mounds and prefer sunny areas. If you believe you may have a fire ant infestation, it is best to seek professional pest control.

Unless you’re prepared to deal with the dangers of fire ant stings, it’s best to not attempt a DIY colony removal. Saela service technicians are trained in ant removal and know how to safely exterminate a colony.

If you’re dealing with a fire ant infestation, contact Saela for extermination. As fire ant queens can lay hundreds of eggs a day, swift action is important to prevent colony growth. Keep your family safe from the dangers of fire ants with professional fire ant control.