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While the Asian giant hornet (Vespa mandarinia), also known as the Japanese giant hornet or the northern giant hornet, usually doesn’t sting people it can be dangerous if threatened. They are better known for attacking honey bees than humans. But you are highly unlikely to encounter one unless traveling abroad as the species was declared eradicated from the U.S. in 2024.
An Asian giant hornet sting is very painful, and multiple stings or an allergy can cause serious reactions. Fatal cases are very rare, but severe outcomes can happen with multiple stings or in people who are allergic. You should seek medical care right away if you experience any symptoms that worry you.
If you think you’ve spotted one of these hornets, do not approach the insect or its nest. Keep children and pets inside, and avoid swatting the hornet. DIY sprays can be risky around large wasps and hornets as they can cause the colony to defend the nest. Call our hornet control technicians for professional removal.
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