Supermarket worker stung by scorpion in bananas

A British supermarket worker was recovering today after being stung by a scorpion hidden in a consignment of bananas.

Karen Dixon, 35, was rushed to hospital when her store manager realised she had been attacked.

She was given anti-venom and anti-histamine injections.

Experts from banana importer Fyffes rescued the scorpion from the supermarket and were today trying to determine what type it was.

Ms Dixon was today back at work at Safeway in Peterlee, Durham, two days after the incident.

Store manager Philip Spark said: ‘‘At first she could not believe what happened. She was totally surprised and a bit blasé about it because it is not something you would expect to happen to you.

‘‘She remained calm throughout and has returned to work.’’

It is understood the scorpion smuggled its way into the country in a consignment of bananas from Belize.

Some scorpions are little more harmful than a wasp whilst others can kill within 40 minutes.

A Safeway spokeswoman said: ‘‘This is an extremely rare occurrence. Karen is fine and well.’’

A Fyffes spokesperson was unavailable for comment.