A woman with a severe wasp sting allergy has described the spread of Asian hornets in the British Isles as 'terrifying', warning that it puts her life at risk. Michelle Wason, from Jersey, says she fears being stung by the invasive species, which has seen a surge in sightings across the UK and Channel Islands.
In the UK, eight Asian hornet nests have been destroyed, along with 56 queens and nests in the Channel Islands. Allergy experts note a 'strong similarity' between wasp and hornet venom, raising concerns for those with allergies. Ms Wason stated, 'If I were to get stung... it could mean the difference between life and death to me.'
In August, a man was hospitalised in Jersey after suffering an allergic reaction to an Asian hornet sting. He was standing near a gardener who disturbed a nest while trimming a hedge. Ms Wason also highlighted a shortage of adrenaline auto-injectors across the British Isles, which are used to combat venom from hornet stings.
The UK Department of Health and Social Care said it is 'working closely' with manufacturers to improve the supply of auto-injectors. Martin Smith from the British Beekeepers Association warned that Asian hornets can be aggressive when disturbed, advising extra caution for those allergic to insect stings.
Dr Pamela Ewan, Consultant Allergist at Cambridge University Hospital NHS Trust, said it is possible the similarities between wasp and European hornet venom extend to Asian hornets. However, she noted that the number of people having reactions to stings from bees, wasps, and hornets is 'very low' in the UK, and there is no shortage of treatment for allergic reactions at hospitals.
