Rove beetles become serious cause for concern in Da Nang
Tuesday, October 01, 2024, 11:31 GMT+7
Several residential areas in Da Nang City, central Vietnam are facing a resurgence of toxic rove beetles, sparking concerns among locals.
Ong Thi Thuy, vice-chairwoman of the People’s Committee in Hoa Tho Dong Ward, Cam Le District, confirmed that authorities have received numerous reports of a rove beetle invasion.
In response, the health department sprayed chemicals in the affected areas on Sunday.
The beetles have been found scattered across several apartment complexes and surrounding neighborhoods in Hoa Tho Dong Ward, typically emerging at night when the weather changes.
Many residents are experiencing distress and panic due to skin blisters after contact
Rove beetles, also referred to as rove ants or striped ants, are slender insects typically seen in autumn during the rice harvest season. They measure between 0.7 and 1 cm in length and have distinctive orange and black stripes.
Tran Dung, a resident of a condo complex, reported finding more than 20 beetles in his bedroom at one point.
|
|
| A man sprays chemicals to exterminate rove beetles at an apartment complex in Hoa Tho Dong Ward, Cam Le District, Da Nang, central Vietnam. Photo: Truong Trung / Tuoi Tre |
He explained that the neighborhood, located near a riverbank and vegetable fields, usually attracts rove beetles at the start of the rainy season, but this recent surge is unprecedented.
“My family had to move our sleeping area and wash all our bedding to avoid exposure to the beatles' toxins,” Dung said, adding that panic has spread throughout the building, with many residents keeping ointments on hand as a precaution.
Rove beetles carry a potent toxin called pederin, which can cause skin irritation, blisters, and ulcers, even with minimal contact.
Doctors warn against crushing or rubbing the beetles, as this can release the toxin and worsen skin damage.
Vietnam's Ministry of Health has recommended using yellow light bulbs instead of fluorescent ones, as rove beetles are drawn to fluorescent lighting.
Residents are also advised to avoid standing under bright lights indoors and to maintain their distance if beetles are spotted nearby.
Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!
