Learn how to identify fire ant stings, and what to do if you or an animal is stung.
Call 000 if someone experiences severe symptoms
Most people don't need medical treatment for fire ant stings.
However, you should call 000 immediately if you experience a rapid onset of flushing, general hives, swelling of the face, eyes or throat, chest pains, rapid pulse, nausea, severe sweating, breathing difficulties or faintness.
Identify a fire ant sting
Fire ants are small, dangerous ants with painful stings. Due to their aggressive and swarming nature, you could be repeatedly stung within seconds. Each ant can sting multiple times.
Stings may initially look like raised welts or red lumps and can feel like a painful burn or become itchy.
Fire ant stings appear as red, itchy bumps within minutes.
Small blisters or pustules can form between 2 hours and 48 hours after being stung.
After 48 hours, stings blister into painful, pus-filled sores.
What to do if you're stung
Move away from ants and nests to avoid more stings, then:
- wash the area with soap and water and apply an antiseptic, if available
- apply an icepack to reduce local pain and swelling
- use pain relief if needed
- use an antihistamine to reduce swelling, redness and itch
- monitor for signs of a serious allergic reaction.
Important: Do not break any blisters that form.
Help for animals
If an animal is stung by fire ants:
- safely move it away from the ants and nest
- remove any fire ants to prevent further stings
- give it a cool bath to offer pain relief.
Keep yourself safe
- Wear gloves to protect yourself when brushing ants off an animal's skin or fur.
- Use a brush or comb to help pick the ants off.
- Avoid using a hose as this can make fire ants more aggressive.
When to see a vet
Contact a vet if an animal shows signs of pain or an allergic reaction, such as:
- drooling
- vomiting
- lethargy
- trouble breathing.
Next steps
If you've seen, or been stung by, fire ants, let us know as soon as you can. Report fire ants.