An employee of the Belgian maatwerkbedrijf Stroom suffered two stings from an Asian hornet while maintaining public greenery in Kerkhovenakkerlaan. On 2025-07-17 18:52:00, the incident occurred near a playground where workers were trimming bushes. The Asian hornet, known locally as a concern for outdoor workers, stung the 49-year-old during routine maintenance.
- 49-year-old worker stung by Asian hornet
- Worker received reanimation, now stable
- Authorities search for nearby hornet nest
- Plan professional removal of hornet nest
- Asian hornet sting causes pain, not danger
- Incident likely triggered hornet's defensive sting
After immediate resuscitation, the worker was transported to ZAS Palfijn hospital in Merksem and is now out of life-threatening danger. While painful, a sting from an Asian hornet is generally not more dangerous than that of a common wasp, except for those with allergies. Could the hornet have felt accidentally threatened by the worker?
Authorities are actively searching for the hornet’s nest to ensure safe removal, aiming to prevent further incidents. This raises important questions about public safety and awareness in Belgian communities.
What does this mean for outdoor workers and residents? Should more precautions be taken when maintaining green spaces? The incident highlights the need for vigilance around invasive species like the Asian hornet. Key points include:
- Asian hornet stings are painful but not usually more harmful than wasp stings unless allergic.
- Prompt medical response was crucial to the employee’s recovery.
- Local authorities are prioritizing nest identification and professional removal.
- Public awareness campaigns could reduce future risks in Belgium.
As Belgian municipalities prepare for summer maintenance, this incident serves as a reminder to increase monitoring of Asian hornet activity. Residents and workers alike should stay informed and cautious to avoid similar encounters in the future.
