ARE YOU ALLERGIC TO THEIR STING?

Fire ants can cause life-threatening reactions in people allergic to them. More people have died from allergic reactions to fire ants in Texas than anywhere in the United States.

The ants guard their nest and fiercely attack intruders. Even the lightest touch to their mound brings them out in a fury. Allergic reactions include swelling, dizziness, shortness of breath and anaphylactic shock. Patients who experience severe or life-threatening allergic reactions to fire ant stings should visit a doctor or hospital immediately upon contact.

For more information on fire ants, their stings and treatments, visit the Texas Allergy, Asthma and Immunology Society Web site at www.taais.org/publiceducation/fireantsimported.html, or call toll free at 1-888-451-9752.

--- Texas Allergy, Asthma and Immunology Society