Whether swimming, hiking or just enjoying your backyard, be vigilant about stinging insects when spending time outdoors in the summer. Though most stings are easily treatable, they can be dangerous, particularly for people with severe allergies.

“It is important to be aware of your surroundings in warm weather when stinging insects are most active,” said Daniel Zink, MSN, CNP, director of operations for urgent care services with AultmanNow Urgent Care. “The key is to avoid any contact.”

Avoiding Contact

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), most insect stings are from yellow jackets, a type of wasp that is often mistaken for a honeybee because of its yellow-and-black coloring. Yellow jackets typically build their nests in the ground or in low-growing shrubs.

Bees and wasps often nest in eaves and overhangs, trees and shrubs, underneath outdoor furniture and equipment and in other areas that provide shelter near food sources.

Insect repellants have no effect on bees, hornets or wasps. To reduce encounters with stinging insects, stay away from flowering plants and discarded food. At picnics or barbecues, keep all food covered. Watch open soda cans because bees can fly inside.

Bees are attracted to bright clothing; wearing light-colored, smooth clothing can reduce your risk. When you are planning to spend time outdoors, avoid perfumed soaps, shampoos and deodorants, as well as perfume or cologne.

If a stinging insect is flying around, stay calm. Don’t swat at it, which may cause it to sting.

Get away quickly if you are attacked by several stinging insects at once. Bees release a chemical when they sting that may attract other bees, so go indoors, if possible, or to a shaded area.

Treating Insect Stings

If you are stung, simple first aid is usually the best remedy. “Most insect bites and stings can be treated at home by removing a stinger if present, cleaning the area with soap and water and applying a cold cloth or cloth filled with ice,” Zink said. “To help with the pain, you can apply a paste of baking soda and water and leave it on for about 15 to 20 minutes.”

You can remove the stinger using a credit card or tweezers, but avoid squeezing the attached venom sac. Do not scratch the sting; doing so may increase swelling, itching and the risk of infection.

Have someone stay with you in case of an anaphylactic reaction, which can be life-threatening.

“It is important to seek immediate medical attention if someone appears to be having an anaphylactic reaction,” Zink said. “Signs of a more serious reaction may include trouble breathing or swelling in the face, mouth, lips or tongue.”

Call 911 or other emergency services for anyone who is having symptoms of an anaphylactic reaction after a bee sting.

Sources:
Aultman Health System
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health
The StayWell Company, LLC