At least 19 people have been stung to death by hornets in southern China . The insects are attracted to the smell of human sweat and can sting humans for up to an hour after they land on their prey. Chen Changlin was hospitalized after being attacked by hornets , while harvesting rice last week . The Asian killer hornet , Vespa mandarinia , is world 's largest hornet and may be involved . Regional hot , dry weather and smell of people may be factors in increased hornet activity .
At least 19 people have been stung to death by hornets in southern China . The insects are attracted to the smell of human sweat and can sting humans for up to an hour after they land on their prey. The Asian killer hornet , Vespa mandarinia , is world 's largest hornet and may be involved . Regional hot , dry weather and smell of people may be factors in increased hornet activity .