Do Ants Make You Sick?
WouterDespite the fact that ants are a common nuisance, they are not necessarily harmful. In fact, ants can be beneficial to the human body, as they are a source of antioxidants and purines. However, ants may carry pathogens, which can be harmful.
Some ants are venomous and can cause fatal allergic reactions. They may also carry food-borne illnesses, such as Salmonella, E. coli and Shigella.
While most people do not think of ants as disease carriers, the truth is that ants can carry pathogens from the environment into your food. Ants have the ability to pick up bacteria and pathogens from the ground or garbage, then transfer them to food, water, and food utensils.
Ants can also transmit pathogens from food into your mouth. Some ants will crawl into your toilet to get water. They may also transfer bacteria to your toothbrush, toothpaste, and food utensils.
There are two types of ant bites: painful and non-painful. Both types cause itching and irritation. When the bites are not treated, they can become infected. The bites can also cause allergic reactions, which can lead to more serious problems.
If you’re allergic to ants, you may experience angioedema, dizziness, or an asthma-like reaction. If you have a severe reaction, you may need to visit the emergency room. If you’re worried about having an allergic reaction, you can use an epinephrine injector.
If you suspect you may be allergic to ants, you should contact your healthcare provider. They can evaluate the area of the bite and determine if you need medical attention.
