Beijing, Sep 27 (IANS): A surge in wasp attacks has led to 19 deaths in Ankang city in the west China since July, the local health department said Friday.
Hospitals in the city have received as many as 583 patients, 70 people were still being treated, officials said.
Local experts said improved vegetation might be a reason for the increased attacks by wasps.
Wasps are an aggressive insect and were usually active in summer and autumn, said experts.
The city's fire department has helped remove more than 300 hives. Three hospitals are treating victims of wasp attacks.