A 25-year-old Russian woman from Taganrog was hospitalized in Shanghai after crushing a toxic rove beetle in her hotel room, the Telegram channel Shot reported.
The woman was resting in her room when she felt a strong burning sensation on her arm and spotted the insect. She swatted it. The following morning a large red patch had formed on the spot, and she felt pain similar to a burn. Blisters developed three days later.
At the hospital, doctors explained that the beetle had not bitten her but released a powerful toxin called pederin when crushed. They said inflammation from pederin can persist for several months. Without prompt medical attention, the condition can progress to fever and joint inflammation, doctors warned her.
