27/07/2026
BEES and WASPS are not aggressive and only sting in self-defence.
HONEY BEES have a BARBED STINGER that becomes firmly embedded into the skin of the victim. It is used to inject a VENOMOUS fluid under the skin. Once embedded the stinger tears away from the abdomen of the bee, resulting in its death within minutes.
BUMBLE BEES and WASPS have SMOOTH STINGERS which can be withdrawn after inflicting a sting and reused. This is why multiple stings are often observed in some people.
WHAT TO EXPECT
SINGLE STINGS in non-sensitive people will produce a hot, red, painful WEAL which may persist for a few hours. These effects can be dangerous following stings to the tongue.
MULTIPLE STINGS in some people can result in vomiting, diarrhoea, headache, difficulty in breathing and coma.
HYPERSENSITIVITY is suspected when systemic features develop shortly after the sting. These include itching, dizziness, wheezing, increased heart rate and fainting.
Over the next 15 minutes swelling of the lips, gums and tongue, hives, redness of the skin and coma may develop. Rarely cardiac arrest can occur.
WHAT TO DO
Most people can be treated at home.
Remove embedded stings by flicking or scraping with fingernail or bank card.
Do not pinch the sting out with your fingers or a pair of tweezers as this can spread the venom.
Avoid scratching the sting area.
Paracetamol/ice packs/calamine lotion may bring relief for mild symptoms.
Antihistamines can be considered when more severe local reactions occur.
If you experience SWELLING or ITCHING elsewhere on your body after being stung, or if you are WHEEZING or having DIFFICULTY SWALLOWING, you will require emergency medical treatment. Call 112 or 999 immediately to request an ambulance.
Contact your GP if infection at the sting site should develop.
National Poisons Information Centre, Beaumont Hospital. 01 8092166
