Bee & Wasp Sting Allergies

Types of insects

It’s important to determine which species of wasp or bee is causing the allergic reaction, as each has its own venom. While some individuals may be allergic to both bees & wasps, most people react to only one. In the UK, wasps and honeybees are the primary culprits for systemic allergic reactions, however bumblebees and hornets are also a risk. In other regions of the world, various insects like bees, wasps, and ants can trigger allergies. Allergy tests can help identify the specific insect you’re allergic to, but they can’t predict the severity of future reactions.

Remember that swatting bees or wasps could cause them to release pheromones that attract more!

• Bees

  The bee leaves its stinger (with venom sac attached) in the skin. Because it takes a few minutes for all the venom to be injected, quick removal of the stinger is important. Avoid squeezing the venom sac as this will only inject more venom into the skin. The sac should be flicked upwards with one quick scrape of the fingernail or a credit card. This will reduce but not eliminate the risk of a serious reaction.

  Beekeepers should take special care. They must always wear protective clothing when collecting swarms or honey. Any beekeeper who is at risk of anaphylaxis to bee venom should seek medical advice on how to safely continue beekeeping.

  Bees only sting if they accidentally collide with you or if their hive is disturbed. Remember to stand back from hives and not directly in front of them. Bees usually follow a similar flight path back to the hive’s entrance. By standing back and observing, you can understand where this flight path is so you can try to avoid getting in the way. Popular places for bees to nest include compost bins and holes in the ground.

• Wasps

  Contrary to popular belief, wasps do pollinate flowers and can act as excellent pest controllers for gardens, consuming insects that damage plants. However, as summer ends, they can become more aggressive due to the dwindling sugary food supply, leading them to hunt for other sources of sugar. In late summer, they may consume fermented fruits, causing them to become “drunk wasps” that act erratically and sting indiscriminately.

  To deter wasps, consider hanging a decoy nest, as wasps avoid areas they perceive as already occupied. Placing a jar of sweet jam in a secluded area of your garden can also divert them from bothering you and your family.

  During autumn and winter, dormant “sleepy” wasps may be found motionless, which can make accidental encounters more likely. Queen wasps hibernate during this time and may seek shelter in bedding, curtains, gloves, boots, or among stacks of plant pots in greenhouses.

  Unlike bees, wasps can sting multiple times, as their stinger remains intact after each sting.

• Hornets

  Hornets in the UK are larger than standard wasps, typically brown or orange in colour, and often have a louder buzzing sound. Despite their intimidating appearance, they are generally less aggressive than wasps. However, their stings can be particularly painful due to the larger volume of venom they inject into the skin.