BEES, WASPS AND HORNETS

Bees sting by leaving a stinger in the skin. Wasps and hornets do not leave a stinger, but their stings can cause more severe reactions. In most cases, stings result in temporary pain, swelling, and redness.

In more serious cases, stings can have life-threatening effects, depending on the location of the sting and whether a person has an allergy. For example, a sting to the throat can cause swelling that interferes with breathing.

Although rare, the most severe allergic reaction to a sting is anaphylaxis, also known as anaphylactic shock. This reaction can develop rapidly and may occur with a first sting or after repeated exposure. Immediate medical attention is critical if symptoms of a severe allergic reaction occur.

SYMPTOMS

Symptoms of a severe allergic reaction may appear immediately or within 30 minutes and can include:

• Hives, itching, or swelling away from the sting site

• Swelling of the eyes or eyelids

• Wheezing

• Tightness in the chest or difficulty breathing

• Hoarse voice or swelling of the tongue

• Dizziness or a sudden drop in blood pressure

• Shock

• Loss of consciousness or cardiac arrest

 

PRECAUTIONS TO TAKE

 

• Stay away. The best way to avoid being stung is to avoid insects and remain alert for hives or nests, as well as areas where insects are gathering or entering and exiting openings. Stinging insects are also attracted to certain foods and are often found near garbage cans, dumpsters, fallen fruit beneath fruit trees, pet food, and other sources of food residue.

• Avoid provoking insects. Do not swat at them or make sudden movements. Instead, allow them to fly away, slowly move away, or gently blow the insect away. If you disturb a nest and hear intense buzzing, act quickly—protect your face with your hands and run away from the area.

• Use caution with power equipment. Mowers, weed eaters, chainsaws, and other machinery can disturb insects. If you are startled or stung while operating this equipment, you risk serious injury beyond the sting itself.

 

• Notify your supervisor. Inform your supervisor if you have allergies to insect stings, especially if you work outdoors. Co-workers should be trained in emergency first aid, recognize the signs of a severe allergic reaction, and know how to use a bee sting kit (self-injectable epinephrine). When working outside, carry a cell phone in case emergency medical assistance is needed.

• Don’t be a bug magnet. Reduce your risk of being stung by wearing light-colored clothing such as khaki, beige, or blue, along with long-sleeved shirts and long pants. Wear closed-toe footwear to protect against bees and wasps that may sting bare or sandaled feet.

• Avoid scented or perfumed products, and ensure insects cannot hide or become trapped in your hair or in folds of clothing or towels. Be aware that insect repellents (“bug spray”) are not effective against stinging insects.

• Use protective gear when necessary. If you must work near bees or wasps, wear a hat with netting to cover your head, neck, and shoulders. Tape pant legs to boots or socks and sleeves to gloves to prevent insects from getting inside.

 

• If a sting occurs, act quickly. Remove the stinger as soon as possible, since venom can continue to be released for up to a minute after the sting. Scrape the stinger out sideways using your fingernail or a credit card, working from the narrow end of the stinger.

• If the venom sac breaks off and the stinger remains in the skin, you may need to use tweezers to remove it. Applying ice (wrapped in a towel to prevent skin damage), anti-itch cream, and/or taking an antihistamine can help reduce swelling and discomfort.

• Do not scratch the sting. Scratching can break the skin and increase the risk of infection.

• Seek emergency help immediately if you or a co-worker is stung in the eyes, nose, or throat, or shows any signs of an allergic reaction—even if you are unsure.

• If you have had a severe allergic reaction to an insect sting in the past, you should expect a similar or more serious reaction in the future. Ask your doctor about prescribing a bee sting kit and carry it with you at all times.

• Individuals who are highly sensitive to stings should also wear a medical alert bracelet. If you are stung multiple times, consult your doctor, as monitoring your health over the following days or weeks may be recommended.