Ocular Lesions Other Than Stings Following Yellow-Legged Hornet (<i>Vespa velutina nigrithorax</i>) Projections, as Reported to French Poison Control Centers

Importance Since the accidental introduction of yellow-legged hornet (Vespa velutina nigrithorax) in France 2004, there have been reports this insect unexpectedly projecting a liquid toward human face, but ocular morbidity associated with is unknown, to our knowledge. Objective To describe case series lesions after exposure projection emitted by hornet. Design, Setting, and Participants This was an analysis all cases (excluding stings eye) collected French poison control centers between January 1, December 31, 2019. Main Outcomes Measures Symptoms were evaluated, fluorescein eye stain test used. Results Twenty-nine recorded (24 male 5 female patients; median age, 40 [interquartile range, 11] years); first occurred 2009. Most (20 [80%]) occupational among professionals dealing nests (eg, firefighters, wasp exterminators). consistent conjunctivitis often resolved quickly decontamination, patients developed periorbital edema, 2 experienced radiating neuropathic pain, keratitis. Conclusions Relevance These findings suggest that into eyes presents new risk health, its precise nature remains be determined. Ocular had favorable outcome. For who deal these insects, adaptation usual protections designed for native hymenopterans may warranted.