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The Invasion: Three-striped Ants Infest Multiple Dormitories and Condominiums in Ho Chi Minh City

The three-striped palm squirrel, or 'three-striped menace' as it is often dubbed, is an extremely dangerous creature. Its bite inflicts a painful, rapid inflammation and blistering of the skin. In recent times, this squirrel has invaded numerous apartment blocks and dormitories in Ho Chi Minh City, causing widespread fear and concern amongst residents.

Administrator

11 August, 2024

A recent photo circulating online has caused alarm among the community, as it reveals a high concentration of three-striped beetles (known as “kien ba khoang” in Vietnamese) at Dormitory Area B of the Ho Chi Minh City National University. According to Dr. Doan Binh Minh, the toxic secretion of these beetles can cause immediate skin damage upon contact.

Image source: Ho Chi Minh City National University, Dormitory Area B community

Reports of Three-Striped Beetle Attacks

The three-striped beetles have been spotted in large numbers at the aforementioned dormitory, particularly at night, gathering around lights and then moving onto clothing and beds. If someone comes into contact with their toxic secretion, it can result in skin damage.

About two weeks ago, a student from the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, N.T. Th, discovered multiple wounds on her arm caused by these beetles. Unfortunately, before her old wounds could heal, she found even more severe lesions.

Another student, H.C, experienced a similar situation but with an even worse outcome. The wounds became pus-filled and caused a burning sensation, prompting H.C to seek medical attention at the infirmary.

In response to these incidents, the Ho Chi Minh City National University dormitory administration has promptly advised students on preventive measures against the beetles, including clearing surrounding bushes to eliminate their habitat. Additionally, insecticides have been sprayed to minimize the beetles’ presence.

Why Has There Been a Sudden Surge in Three-Striped Beetles?

The Da Lieu Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City has reported a sudden increase in patients suffering from allergies due to three-striped beetles, with approximately 80-100 cases per day, compared to none in the previous month.

Dr. Vu Thi Phuong Thao, from the Da Lieu Hospital, stated that the common skin symptoms during this beetle outbreak include patches and blisters on the hands and feet.

The current rainy season in Ho Chi Minh City creates favorable conditions for the proliferation of three-striped beetles in residential areas, dormitories, and construction sites near fields, ponds, or water bodies.

It is important to be cautious in areas where pesticides are frequently used for agricultural purposes, such as Districts 7 and 9, as well as Hoc Mon and Cu Chi, due to the displacement of the beetles from their natural habitat.

What to Do If You Are Attacked by Three-Striped Beetles

The toxic secretion of three-striped beetles can rapidly destroy the skin’s protective barrier, leading to inflammation and burns. However, if you develop blisters, refrain from touching, squeezing, or scratching them, as this may lead to infection. Simply wash the affected area and apply medication.

If the lesions spread, seek immediate medical attention at a healthcare facility. Delaying treatment may result in scarring and discoloration.

The Institute of Malariology, Parasitology, and Entomology in Ho Chi Minh City (under the Ministry of Health) offers the following advice for preventing three-striped beetle infestations:
• Use yellow light bulbs instead of white ones, as the beetles are attracted to white light.
• Sleep under a mosquito net, and install screens on windows and doors.
• Keep doors closed when not in use.
• Clear surrounding bushes and vegetation.
• For farmers working in fields, wear long sleeves, hats, masks, and boots to minimize direct contact with insects.

We hope that this information raises awareness about the highly toxic three-striped beetles and provides effective measures to deal with them. Please share this with your friends and family to ensure their safety!

Frequently asked questions

The article discusses an infestation of three-striped ants in multiple dormitories and condominiums in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, and offers advice on how to deal with the problem.

Three-striped ants (Thoracicus sp.) are small ants native to Southeast Asia. They are considered a pest because they invade homes and other buildings in large numbers, and their bites can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions in some people.

Three-striped ants are attracted to sweet and greasy foods, as well as moisture. They often enter buildings through small cracks and crevices, and once inside, they can quickly establish colonies and become a persistent problem.

While three-striped ants are not known to carry any diseases harmful to humans, their bites can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions in some individuals. In rare cases, severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) may occur.

Getting rid of three-striped ants can be challenging, but there are some effective methods. Seal any cracks and crevices that may be providing entry points for the ants, and remove any food sources that could be attracting them. You can also use ant baits and insecticides specifically designed for ant control. It is important to thoroughly clean and sanitize any areas where ants have been present.

Yes, there are some natural repellents and DIY methods that can be effective in deterring three-striped ants. For example, you can use essential oils such as peppermint, tea tree, or citrus oils to repel ants. Diatomaceous earth and boric acid are also natural pest control methods that can be used to create barriers or treat infested areas.

Prevention is always better than cure. Keep your home clean and tidy, and store food in airtight containers. Regularly inspect your home for any signs of ant activity, and seal any potential entry points. Maintaining good sanitation and hygiene practices can help deter not just ants but also other pests.