California Hiker Airlifted After Allergic Reaction To Fire Ants
Santa Barbra, California — At about 10:15 Tuesday morning, members of the Montecito Fire Department responded to the West Fork of the Cold Springs Trail for an injured hiker on the Lower Tangerine Falls Trail.
The female victim suffered an allergic reaction after coming into contact with fire ants. Firefighters and Santa Barbara County Search And Rescue team members began hiking up to the patient’s location on the Lower Tangerine Falls trail.
Santa Barbara County Air Support Unit Copter 308 located the hiker and lowered a rescuer to hoist her out. She was flown to the hospital for further medical treatment.
The red imported fire ant is native along a narrow corridor through central South America extending from northwest of Porto Velho, Brazil to Santa Fe, Argentina. In the United States, they can be found throughout the south and are present in California, particularly in Southern California and some Central Valley areas, where the invasive red imported fire ant has established colonies.
These ants build small dirt mounds and can become aggressive if disturbed, often swarming and delivering multiple painful stings that feel like burning and can form itchy pustules. Most stings cause temporary pain and irritation, but some people may experience severe allergic reactions requiring medical attention.
To stay safe, avoid stepping on or disturbing ant mounds, wear closed-toe shoes when walking in grassy or undeveloped areas, and keep food sealed when outdoors. If stung, wash the area with soap and water, apply a cold compress to reduce swelling, and seek medical help if symptoms such as difficulty breathing, dizziness, or widespread swelling occur.
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