Tourist bitten by a scorpion, accidentally brought from vacation, at Düsseldorf airport
An unusual incident occurred at Düsseldorf airport. A 52-year-old woman was returning to Germany from a Mediterranean vacation. The scorpion, apparently, hid in her jacket. When the tourist tried to put it on, the animal suddenly stung her, Bild reports .
Illustrative photo
The victim immediately received assistance from the airport's emergency services. Rescuers meanwhile called a specialist who caught and identified the scorpion. It turned out to be a yellow Mediterranean scorpion (Leiurus quinquestriatus) about eight centimeters long.
This species is considered one of the most venomous scorpions in the world. Its venom contains very potent neurotoxins. For a healthy adult, a sting is usually not fatal, but it can be dangerous for children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems.
The woman was taken to the nearest hospital by airport ambulance. After consultations with medics and specialists, it was decided to transfer her to a university clinic for further treatment.
The yellow Mediterranean scorpion is common in North Africa, Turkey, and the Arabian Peninsula. The venom of this arthropod is extremely valuable: according to reports, a liter of the substance can cost several million euros.
The caught scorpion was handed over to the reptile zoo by the fire department.