Georgia invaded by stinging ants that can send you to hospital
ATLANTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) - A venomous ant species known as the Asian needle ant is becoming more common in Georgia, and experts are warning residents to be on alert, especially those with insect bite allergies.
Daniel Suiter, entomologist with the University of Georgia, said the ants can be found right in his own backyard.
“Whenever I pick something like that up, I have to check underneath it because there will be Asian needle ants underneath — and they’ll get on you and sting you,” Suiter said.
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Asian needle ants, originally discovered in the 1930s, have now established colonies along much of the East Coast. Scientists began to understand their full impact only in recent decades.
Though small, measuring just about 3/16 of an inch, these ants deliver a painful sting and can trigger serious allergic reactions in people sensitive to insect venom, such as from wasps or yellow jackets.
The stings, while not life-threatening to most, can cause anaphylactic shock in some individuals. Suiter recalled receiving a report this summer of a woman being hospitalized after a sting.
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“I suspect there are people who have shown up in emergency rooms where the physician diagnosed anaphylaxis and nobody ever knew what happened,” he said.
To reduce the risk of encountering the ants, experts advise keeping lawns clear of debris and using bait traps. Colonies often hide under logs or stones in wooded or suburban areas.
If you think you’ve spotted an Asian needle ant, Suiter suggests snapping a photo or collecting a sample using tweezers. Place it in a sealed vial or bag and send it to your local UGA Extension office for identification.
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For those with known allergies to insect stings, experts recommend carrying an EpiPen when spending time outdoors.
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