Wasp Stings and Treatment

Wasp Bites and Stings

Preventing a sting mostly comes down to giving wasps and their nests space. Social wasps are most likely to sting when something disturbs the nest, but a single wasp may also sting if it’s swatted or trapped against skin. Move slowly and calmly when one lands near you rather than flailing at it. Outdoor meals are a common setup for stings, because wasps are drawn to sweet drinks and meat and can crawl inside an open can or cup unseen. Use cups with lids or straws, and glance before each sip. For most people, the burning pain fades within hours, leaving a sore, swollen spot. People with a known sting allergy face a much greater risk and should keep prescribed emergency medicine close at hand.

Florida Wasp Stings: What to Expect and What to Do

Wasps can sting more than once, because unlike a honey bee’s, their stinger isn’t barbed. The wasps most likely to sting Floridians are paper wasps, which nest under eaves and on porches, and yellowjackets, which usually nest in the ground or in hidden cavities. Yellowjackets are especially quick to defend a nest.

Typical reaction: sharp pain, a red welt and swelling around the sting. Some people get a large local reaction, with swelling that spreads several inches and peaks a day or two later. That’s uncomfortable but usually not dangerous.

First aid:

• Walk away from the area calmly but quickly, since other wasps may join in.
• Wash the sting with soap and water and apply a cold pack.
• Raise the stung arm or leg, and remove rings before swelling sets in.
• An over-the-counter antihistamine or pain reliever can ease itching and soreness.

Get emergency help right away for hives or itching away from the sting, swelling of the lips, tongue or throat, wheezing, dizziness, vomiting or fainting. Anyone prescribed an epinephrine auto-injector should use it as directed. Many stings at once, or a sting inside the mouth or throat, also need prompt medical care, even without an allergy.

See a doctor later if the area becomes hotter, redder and more painful after a few days, which can mean infection. For pets, call a vet if a dog or cat is stung on the face or more than once. Nest locations to watch for are on wasp infestation.