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!
Easy Tips to Keep Your Home Dry During Wet Seasons
Are you worried that the upcoming wet season will ruin the furniture in your home? Dien May Xanh has a few helpful tips you can put in place to keep your house and its contents dry during the rainy months!
Protective Eyewear: How to Shield Skin and Eyes from Harmful UV Rays
Don’t let hazardous ultraviolet rays get the best of you! Read this article by Dien May GREEN to learn more about these invisible rays and what steps you can take to protect yourself.
Strategies for Safeguarding Electronics from Storm Damage
In this article, XANH Electronics will be taking a look at the five most commonly used household electrical appliances that are prone to damage brought on by wet weather. We’ll explore the best ways to prevent damage and the steps required to work towards getting repairs done if needed.
5 Strategies for Speeding up Laundry on Rainy Days
The rainy season can feel like a challenge when it comes to managing household chores – particularly the daily task of laundry. To make life easier, Ði?n Máy XANH is here to help with some useful suggestions on how to quickly get clothes washed and dried in this humid weather!
How to Stop Clothes from Getting Musty in Rainy Weather
Doing laundry in bad weather can feel like an uphill battle, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are some helpful suggestions on how to make sure your garments stay clean and fragrant, even in rainy or windy conditions.
