Red imported fire ants have been detected for the first time in Northern NSW, after three nests were located in South Murwillumbah, 13 kilometres south of the Queensland border.
On average, 14 million people are stung each year from fire ants worldwide, with 25,000 requiring medical attention*.
Medical practitioners must immediately notify the NSW Department of Primary Industries if you suspect or confirm a patient has been stung by fire ants in NSW, by reporting the case to the NSW Biosecurity Helpline on 1800 680 244.
Characteristics of fire ant stings
- When stinging, fire ants inject venom that causes a painful local reaction.
- Stings may initially appear as raised welts or hive-like lesions associated with intense burning, itchiness and redness.
- Severe allergic reactions and anaphylaxis can occur following fire ant stings.
Treatment of fire ant stings
- Antihistamines can be considered to manage minor localised reactions and itching.
- Topical or oral steroids can be considered for large, localised reactions.
- Manage anaphylaxis immediately with adrenaline, as per standard anaphylaxis protocols.
- Call 000 and refer to an Emergency Department if severe symptoms appear.
- Call the Poisons Information Centre 131 126 for clinical advice.
- Our HealthPathways site also has up-to-date information in case you need to refer patients for specialist immunology services.
For more information, including pictures of fire ant stings, access the NSW Government’s information for medical practitioner’s resource below:
Please note that some of the information in the resource may change due to the evolving nature of the issue.
Visit the National Fire Ant Eradication Program website for more information relating to health impacts.
*Figures obtained from Australian Interstate Quarantine.