2-17. LOCAL CUTANEOUS TREATMENT
The application of any of the following will help to soothe the area that has been
stung. These remedies include local compresses, a baking soda solution or paste of
soda bicarbonate, strong household ammonia to reduce discomfort, Benadryl 4 kg/BW,
and an IV of calcium gluconate 10 ml of 10%.
Section III. FIRE ANTS, SCORPIONS, CENTIPEDES, AND MILLIPEDES
2-18. FIRE ANTS
These ants are referred to as fire ants because of the sharp, fiery pain
accompanying their stings. It is believed they were introduced into the United States as
cargo stowaway prior to 1930 and since then have become a scourge throughout the
southwestern states. They are spreading rapidly, probably as passenger car
stowaways now. This ant (Figure 2-5) is 5 to 6 mm long and its color depends upon its
geographical area where it is located. The fire ant is known for the suddenness and
ferocity of its attack when a nest (a large hard-crusted earthen mound) is disturbed. It
sinks its powerful mandibles into the victim's skin for leverage, and drives its sting into
the flesh.
Figure 2-5. Fire ant.
2-19. SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF FIRE ANT STINGS
Immediately upon the fire ant's preparation, the victim experiences a fierce,
burning pain. A wheal develops at the site some 4-8 mm in diameter, and it is possible
to detect two bright hemorrhagic punctures. The superficial vesicles containing thin,
clear liquid within 24 hours develops into an umbilicated pustule enclosed in a red halo
that is very painful. Possessing neurotoxic and hemolytic properties, the venom
injected by the fire ant is water-insoluble, strongly alkaline and is soluble in most organic
solvents. The victim may show febrile and allergic symptoms. Fatalities have been
reported.
MD0588
2-9