Often people take hornets for large wasps (their counterparts). Not imagining what they are dealing with, they themselves are in great danger.
After all, a hornet, the bite of which can become fatal, is much more dangerous than a regular wasp due to its size and a higher content of neurotoxin in the poison. Most often, these insects attack when someone tries to damage their nest or makes sudden movements near them. To transmit danger signals, odorous substances - pheromones - are used. That is why you can not leave a dead insect near the house. Even a dead hornet is dangerous. The spread of smell can then attract a swarm of its relatives. And then wait for trouble. Angry insects can easily attack humans.
Hornet Bite Signs
Hornets, like wasps, can bite repeatedly. After this, local reactions develop, such as swelling, pain, redness, and general malaise (headaches, often fever, symptoms of poisoning). A bite in the neck, and even more so in the throat, can lead to suffocation, the development of anaphylactic shock and death. On the right is what a hornet bite looks like . The photo gives an idea of the dangers of this phenomenon.
What to do if a hornet stings
There are two types of reactions to a bite: allergic and toxic. If the poison enters directly into the vessel or next to it, then a loss of pressure can occur, even death. This is especially scary if the hornet, whose bite is so dangerous, is stung in the neck or head. You must immediately apply something cold to relieve swelling and do not hesitate to call the "Ambulance". If you suddenly got stung by a hornet, it can also be treated with the following methods before the doctors arrive. Stir well a special solution of vinegar, water and ammonia. After rubbing the sting site, then apply a compress. You can replace this solution with lemon juice or even in extreme cases with urine. These measures will help relieve swelling and reduce the rate of absorption of poison by the body. If you have allergic reactions, you must immediately take the drug "Cordiamin", as well as an antihistamine drug (means "Suprastin", "Tavegil", etc.). A quick visit to a doctor is a necessary condition to avoid dangerous consequences.
What could be the consequences of hornet bites
As a rule, the hornet sting is not too dangerous for humans. However, the consequences depend on the presence of an allergic reaction, as well as the localization of the bite site. Of course, they are very dangerous if they are in the neck, throat, head, and also where the largest vessels of the circulatory system pass in a person. After all, then the poison can, once in the bloodstream, spread very quickly and reach the brain. The main complications of hornet bites: Quincke's edema, urticaria, impaired heart function (sometimes even until it stops), asphyxiation.
How to protect yourself from bites
In fact, a hornet, whose bite is so scary, is a fairly peaceful representative of insects. If you do not touch him and do not provoke, he will not attack. But if the attack has already begun, then the whole family will join it. How to prevent the stings of these insects from turning against you?
- Be careful in the forest or outdoors. Avoid using spicy perfumes with pungent aromas.
- If the hornets have flown up, in no case can you make sudden movements, try to drive insects away. This will only worsen the situation.
- Do not touch the nest of insects if you find it. Hornets are very responsible for housing protection.
- When you see the nest, try to retreat to a safe distance as soon as possible. Hornets do not lead an enemy for a long time. The pursuit distance is much shorter than that of bees.