A Little about Bees and Wasps:
Bees and wasps are found throughout the state of West Virginia and live
in colonies. Both use poisonous venom in defense of themselves and their
nesting areas. These animals sting rather than bite. Bees can leave
the stinger, venom sack and muscle tissue in the victim. Wasps can sting
over and over again. Avoidance is the best course of action with bees and
wasps.
What happens if I get stung?
The area of the sting becomes red, swollen, painful, and possibly itchy. These symptoms may persist for several hours causing discomfort but no real danger. However, one sting can cause a fatal allergic reaction in a hypersensitive person. This anaphylactic reaction takes place rapidly following the sting, and it can be life threatening. The hypersensitive victim may have the following: nasal congestion, wheezing, difficulty breathing, difficulty swallowing/a sensation that the throat is swelling. If the sting victim begins to show the symptoms of a severe reaction , call 911 immediately. Never try to take the person to the emergency center yourself. When the paramedics arrive, they will be able to give medication to treat the symptoms.
What can I do if I get stung?
Remove the stinger by scraping with a credit card or the blunt side of a knife. Avoid pinching or tweezing, as you may squeeze more venom into the wound. Clean the site with soap and water. A baking soda and water, or meat tenderizer (that contains papain) and water paste, followed by a cool compress may minimize the local reaction. The progression of symptoms should be observed closely, especially in the first hour following the sting. Mild local symptoms may be relieved by taking antihistamines. More severe or rapidly progressing symptoms may require treatment from a health care facility. Call the West Virginia Poison Center if unusual or rapidly progressing symptoms occur. Patients demonstrating hypersensitivity should obtain an emergency kit to be carried at all times.