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Fire Ant Stings

A fire ant sting causes a sharp burning sensation followed by redness, itching and often a small pus-filled blister. Several stings can happen at the same time if a child disturbs a nest.

The reaction comes from venom injected by the ant. Some children can also have a severe allergic reaction to fire ant venom.

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AAP Guide to Fire Ant Stings

The AAP guide below explains what to expect, how to care for the stings and when an allergic reaction needs emergency care.

AAP Symptom CheckerFire ant stings

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When to see a doctor

Contact your pediatrician or another healthcare professional if:

  • The sting sites become increasingly red, warm or painful.
  • Pus spreads beyond the expected small pustules or fever develops.
  • Swelling is severe or the reaction is not improving.
  • You are concerned that the skin has become infected.

Call 911 or get emergency care if:

  • Your child has trouble breathing.
  • Your child develops swelling of the tongue, throat or face.
  • Your child collapses or has other signs of a severe allergic reaction.

Talk to a nurse now, at any hour

When can my child be seen

Be seen today.

Every office keeps same-day appointments for illness and injury.

This evening or at the weekend.

Most offices run After Hours Care, by appointment rather than walk-in.

If you are worried, call. We would rather answer a question that turns out to be nothing.

More on bites and stings

See the rest of this group and all 164 symptoms