On 12/5, a representative from Ca Mau Obstetrics and Pediatrics Hospital reported that the girl was admitted to the pediatric emergency department. She was lethargic, with pale lips, a weak pulse, irregular heartbeat, and rapid breathing. Doctors noted coarse lungs and numerous scattered hornet stings, some showing central necrosis. The diagnosis was a severe grade III anaphylactic reaction.

Doctor Tran Thien Ly, the hospital's Deputy Director, explained that hornet venom can damage multiple organs, including the liver, heart, kidneys, and brain. In this patient's case, both the liver and lungs were affected, leading to skin infection and sepsis. The girl's liver enzymes increased after initial treatment, complicating her condition.

Doctors examine the child stung by hornets. Photo: An Minh.

Doctors examine the child stung by hornets. Photo: An Minh.

The medical team implemented treatment protocols for grade III anaphylaxis and liver failure, managing various complications and preparing for potential dialysis. Currently, the girl's liver enzymes have significantly decreased, and her liver function is gradually recovering. Lung damage has not progressed. She continues to receive treatment for skin infection and sepsis. If her condition improves further, she is expected to be discharged in approximately two weeks.

Family members reported the accident occurred while the girl was playing with her two brothers. She and one brother hid in a bush, planning to scare the third, but accidentally disturbed a hornet nest. The girl suffered over 70 stings, while her 13-year-old brother, stung about six times, is now stable.

Doctors advise parents to supervise children's play, particularly during summer, and to restrict access to areas with dense vegetation. If a child is stung by a hornet, parents should clean and disinfect the wound. While temporary pain relief can be administered, immediate medical attention is crucial.

Individual reactions to hornet stings vary; even a few stings can be life-threatening. Relying on folk remedies to treat stings can delay critical medical intervention, as complications from hornet stings often progress rapidly, potentially causing cardiac arrest within hours.

An Minh