b. Signs and Symptoms of a Fire Ant Sting.
(1)
Burning sensation at the site of the sting.
(2)
Wheal at site of the sting (forms within minutes after the sting).
(3) Clear fluid-filled bubble or blister at site of sting (forms within minutes
after the sting). See figure 2-6.
Cloudy fluid-filled bubble (2 to 4 hours after the sting).
(4)
(5)
Bubble on a red base (appears 8 to 10 hours after the bite).
(6) Lesion (appears 3 to 8 days after the bite). The lesion often leaves a
scar after healing.
(7)
Anaphylactic shock.
Figure 2-6. Fire ant sting
2-14. TREAT A FIRE ANT STING
a. Cleanse Wound. Cleanse the sting area with an antiseptic solution from
your aid bag. If an antiseptic solution is not available, cleanse the area with soap and
water.
b. Apply Cold Treatment. Apply ice, an ice bag, or chemical cold packs to the
sting area, if available, to relieve pain, help control swelling, and reduce the spread of
the venom.
c. Evacuate Casualty, If Needed. Evacuate the casualty to a medical
treatment facility if anaphylactic shock develops.
MD0548
2-14