ANT

Ants are the most prolific group of insects. Ant colonies can be found virtually anywhere, in lawns, under rocks or wood logs, in decayed trees, under buildings, and in holes and hollow spaces on rooftops. Any location can become a place for nesting for ants.

Worker ants bring trouble as they travel far and wide to search for food. They are attracted by sweet or fat substances in the kitchen, cupboards, or warehouses. They are found to eat even bandages, dirty linen, and feces in hospitals.

Ants cause unpleasant sight in the food area and can spoil or stain human food. Of course, no one likes to be stung or bitten by insects. Some ants can cause allergies in sensitive people.

Harmful effects

• Rove beetle bodies contain pederin – a toxic substance secreted along with their body fluids. If meeting human skin, pederin can cause blisters, burns, or dermatitis.
• Symptoms: Red skin rashes appeared as streaks or patches, in the direction of the palm, slightly raised, with small blisters or pustules in the middle and some yellow-brown round or oval sunken spots.

Tips to prevent rove bettles

• Use window and door nets. Close the door when going out and reduce light at night.
• Keep the house and beds clean. Use mosquito nets. Avoid drying clothes overnight.
• At apartment buildings: Arrange the light system reasonably. Use strong lights to attract insects in areas far from living space and soft, red, or yellow light in areas closer to the house.
• Keep the surrounding area clean, especially the bushes or plant areas.
• Wear a hat when going out at night or working under the light to avoid ants falling on the neck, face, or body. 
• Do not use bare hands to catch, kill or press on the ants
• Do not touch, scratch, or squeeze the affected areas. Immediately wash the contact areas with clean water and soap after touching the rove beetles, then treat the bites with light antiseptic. If rashes appear, it is best to use saline to clean the bitten areas 3 – 4 times/day to neutralize the insect’s secretions.
• Immediately come to health facilities for checking
• Spray insect repellent regularly in public and greenery areas.