Hiker dies after Asian giant hornet attack on mountain trail in southeastern Taiwan

A hiking guide died in hospital after being stung more than 50 times as he attempted to protect a group of 20 students from a swarm of Asian giant hornets on a trail in Taitung County, yesterday, August 22.

According to reports, the hiking group were traversing the Jinshuiying Ancient Trail from Pingtung County to Taitung County when they were attacked by a swarm of Asian giant hornets (Vespa mandarinia) around 2.5 kilometers from the trail exit in Dawu Township late afternoon Thursday.

Three people in the group were stung, including the 41-year-old guide and team leader, named Hong. Mr Hong is said to have stood his ground while urging the 19 students to run. Two of the students, a 16-year-old male, and a 19-year-old female were also stung, but remained conscious.

After reaching a safe distance, the hikers called for help. Personnel from the Taitung County Fire Department reached the group at around 7:00 pm. Mr Hong was severely injured after enduring more than 50 stings. Paramedics used three doses of cardiotonic as they carried Hong down the mountain, reaching the trailhead at around 10:00 pm.

Hong was rushed to the Dawu Health Center, then transferred to Taitung Mackay Hospital in Taitung City. However, Hong’s condition worsened and he was pronounced dead at 2:42 am.

Late summer and autumn are the peak seasons for hornet attacks in Taiwan, and hikers are urged to take precautions when entering wilderness areas.

Read Tips on How to Survive a Hornet Attack.

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