Many insects such as bees and wasps may sting when agitated or in defence of their nest or territories.
While wasps can sting repeatedly the stinger of a honey bee detaches from its body and can remain embedded in the skin, and continues to inject venom.
- If a stinger is presnt in the skin, remove it as quickly as possible taking care not to squeeze the end of the stinger.
- Local pain, redness, swelling, and itching generally occur at the sting site.
- In general, care for bites and stings by washing the site with soap and water.
- As a precaution for swelling, always remove jewelry from the affected area.
- Cover the area with an adhensive bandage or a pad.
- Use local cooling to help reduce swelling and pain.
It is possible for a life-treatening allergic reaction to develop. Monitor for at least 30 minutes to see if the condition worsens.
If you think someone is developing a severe allegic reaction immediately call 111. If the person affected has an epinephrine auto-injector available, assist the person in using it.