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Imported fire ant as a health hazard
C T Stafford1, L S Hutto, R B Rhoades
1Allergy-Immunology Section, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta 30912.
Southern Medical Journal
|December 1, 1989
Summary
Imported fire ant (IFA) stings cause significant medical issues, with 7% of surveyed physicians reporting treating over 20,000 patients annually. A small but critical percentage experienced life-threatening anaphylaxis from these stings.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Public Health
- Allergy & Immunology
Background:
- Imported fire ant (IFA) stings are a prevalent health concern in southern US states.
- Reactions to IFA stings range from localized symptoms to severe systemic responses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify the medical burden of imported fire ant stings in the southern United States.
- To determine the incidence of severe reactions, including anaphylaxis, from IFA stings.
Main Methods:
- A survey was distributed to physicians who are members of the American Medical Association across 13 southern states.
- Physicians reported the approximate number of patients treated annually for reactions to imported fire ant stings.
Main Results:
- Out of 29,205 surveyed physicians, 2,022 (7%) reported treating an estimated 20,755 patients yearly for IFA sting reactions.
- The majority of treated patients experienced local reactions.
- A significant minority, 413 patients (2%), required emergency treatment for life-threatening anaphylaxis.
Conclusions:
- Imported fire ant stings represent a substantial public health issue in the southern US.
- While most reactions are localized, the incidence of severe anaphylaxis necessitates ongoing vigilance and public awareness.
- Physician reporting highlights the need for effective sting management and prevention strategies.