If using the 2014 rules, when a rot grub brings a PC to 0 hp, the PC dies. But with wild shape going to 0 hp reverts the Druid to original form. Do the rot grubs stay in the PC's body?

If using the 2024 rules, the Druid just dies while in wild shape yes?

Greetings Wysperra,

I was unfamiliar with what a Swarm of Rot Grubs was, so I looked it up.

I like these little guys and will be including them in my next One-Shot!

To the point of your question...

2014 5e: The Wild Shape description states that the Druid will 'automatically revert if you fall unconscious, drop to 0 hit points, or die'. So for this situation, as a DM, I would say that the character reverts back to their normal form, but are still infected with the Rot Grubs. I would give them a Saving Throw at the point they changed back to see if the change killed off the Grubs, but other than that, they would still be infested.

2024 5e: The Wild Shape rules for 2024 state that you don't get the creatures HP, but gains some Temp HP when you switch. If the Grubs take you all of the way down to 0 HP, then yes, you would be dead per the monster's description.

I have loved rot grubs forever.

As already noted, yes, in 2024 rules, you die.

In 2014 rules, I'd probably rule that the grub was cast out of the body, but it still on them -- giving the PC 1 turn to do something. But the underlying intent is probably that the grub remains in the body, and so they are still at risk of dying.

Since RG's are among the most dangerous of hazards, I will usually give PCs a benefit of the doubt. But, if the player doesn't do anything, well, all bets are off.