Asian giant hornets kill 28 in China

Deadly hornets have killed 28 people in China following a string of recent attacks that have injured hundreds.

A mother and son have died in one attack, after being surrounded by a swarm of the insects, it has been reported.

A 68-year-old man died after a sudden gust of wind knocked over a hive, instigating another attack.

A manual worker was also stung after he accidentally poured soil onto a nest, he escaped further strings by sprinting into the home of a nearby farmer.

Chinese authorities are promising to help victims pay for medical treatment after it emerged that almost all of those left hospitalised where poor manual labourers on rice farms.

Eighteen of the total deaths happened in the city of Ankang, which has seen a further 212 people injured.

Experts are blaming Asian giant hornets, which grow up to 5cm in length. The gargantuan insects also sport a stinger in excess of 6mm long.

The wasps are natural attackers, their jaws are powerful enough to chew through regular protective bee suits and their venom dissolves human flesh.

With the ability to spray venom, it is crucial to protect the face. If their venom lands in the eyes, the eye tissue will melt, according to a National Geographic documentary.

A single sting is capable of anaphylactic shock and renal failure.