A shocking and rare incident unfolded at Boston Logan International Airport when a woman was stung by a scorpion while retrieving her luggage.
Scorpion Sting at Logan Airport
The incident occurred around 7:30 p.m. on Sunday at Terminal E, where the woman had just arrived from Mexico and was collecting her bags at baggage claim in the customs area. According to reports from the Massachusetts State Police and Boston EMS, she was suddenly stung on her finger by a scorpion hiding among her belongings.
Emergency responders quickly transported her to a nearby hospital for treatment. Authorities have not yet disclosed her condition or how the scorpion ended up on her luggage.
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Are Scorpions Dangerous?
While scorpions are not native to Boston, over 2,000 species exist worldwide. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that while most scorpion stings are not life-threatening, they can cause:
- Intense pain and redness
- Neurological symptoms in young children
- Severe illness in some cases, including heart and nervous system complications
According to the Mayo Clinic, scorpions are commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions, particularly in Mexico, the southwestern U.S., and parts of South America, Africa, and Asia.

Travel Precautions: How to Stay Safe
Travelers should take extra precautions when visiting destinations where scorpions are common:
- Shake out shoes, clothing, and bags before handling them.
- Avoid placing bags on the ground or near vegetation where scorpions may hide.
- If stung, seek medical attention immediately, especially if symptoms worsen.
While this incident at Boston Logan Airport is rare, it serves as a reminder that unexpected travel risks can happen anywhere.
Would you be surprised to find a scorpion in your luggage? Share your thoughts.