Bees, wasps and stinging ants

From the order hymenoptera, the honey bee (Apis mellifera), the European wasp (Vespula germanica) and ants ...

Bees, wasps and stinging ants

From the order hymenoptera, the honey bee (Apis mellifera), the European wasp (Vespula germanica) and ants from the genus Myrmecia are important causes of mortality or morbidity. Most often their sting causes a painful local reaction with little systemic effect. However in sensitized individuals these stings can cause severe local and/or generalized allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis. Note Dose-dependent toxicity can sometimes be significant with multiple bee and European wasp stings. Haemolysis, rhabdomyolysis and metabolic derangement may precede clinical deterioration.

First Aid Information: Ant, bee or wasp

Persons known to be sensitive to ant, bee or wasp stings should seek immediate medical attention if stung.

Where the sting apparatus remains attached to the skin, it should be removed as soon as possible by scraping with a fingernail or any technique which avoids squeezing further venom into the wound.

In non-sensitive individuals, the application of ice-packs may reduce pain. Analgesia or topical anaesthetic agents may be required where pain cannot be managed otherwise.

European Wasps: An Emerging Hazard in Australia

Winkel, K.  1998.  European Wasps: An Emerging Hazard in Australia. 9th Annual Scientific Meeting of the Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy Programs and Abstracts.
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