Fire ants are dangerous to humans, pets, and animals:
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Painful stings
Fire ants are aggressive and their stings are extremely painful, especially when multiple ants sting at once. The sting can cause a burning, itching sensation that lasts up to an hour.
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Allergic reactions
In rare cases, fire ant stings can cause a severe and sometimes fatal allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. Symptoms of a severe reaction include the need for breathing support, intravenous fluids, or an electrocardiogram.
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Nests
Fire ants build large mounds of dirt that can be found in lawns, garden beds, and bushland. If you find a nest, you should photograph it from a safe distance and contact the relevant authorities.
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Invasive species
Fire ants are considered one of the world's worst invasive species. They can damage crops, girdle young trees, and injure animals and people.