The Buzz About Bee Stings

Did you know?

Only female bees and wasps can sting.

Bee

• Fuzzy and rounded
• Stings when threatened or stepped on
• Pollinates plants and flowers
• Stings once – typically leaves stinger behind, some species die afterwards

Wasp

• Sleek and shiny
• More aggressive and quick to sting
• Hunts for insects to eat
• Stings repeatedly and does not lose stinger or die immediately.

Bee and wasp stings contain a venom that can cause an allergic reaction.

Tips to Treat a Sting

• Remove stinger with dull-edge object. TIP: Do not use tweezers. They can cause the venom to release and worsen symptoms.
• Wash area with soap and cold water.
• Ice area for 20 minutes at a time.
• Use over-the-counter pain medication such as Tylenol, to reduce swelling.
• Monitor for signs of a moderate to severe allergic reaction, such as extreme redness, difficulty breathing, hives and severe swelling.

Having a Reaction?

Symptoms to watch for an treatments:

• Mild: Burning pain at sting stie, redness and slight swelling. Treat at home. Symptoms should improve in one day.
• Moderate: Extreme redness and swelling that gets bigger over time. Talk to your doctor or visit the nearest urgent care if symptoms don’t improve in 7-10 days.
• Severe: Difficulty breathing, extreme swelling and redness. Hives can develop. Call 911 or visit the nearest emergency room.

How to Avoid Getting Stung

• Keep sugary foods and beverages in closed containers or indoors.
• Stay calm and don’t swat at bees.
• Avoid wearing sweet and floral fragrances
• Protect your feet to avoid stepping on a bee.
• Dress in light, solid colors.

Uncertain about a reaction? Contact your doctor or visit an urgent care. For severe allergic reactions, call 9-1-1 or head to the nearest ER.