Summer time is also the time for not only mosquitoes, but for lots of other buzzing insects, such as bees.  Bees help pollinate our plants, but they also have a great defense mechanism that many us don't like to experience.  "The Sting" of a bee can be a fierce one, especially for those who are allergic to the venom of a bee.

• Wear light colored clothing
• Avoid wearing perfumed fragrances or colognes
• Avoid using perfumed soaps and deodorants
• Keep yourself clean - bees dislike the smell of sweat
• Avoid flowering plants
• Keep picnic areas picked up and free of open foods
• Keep garbage can lids closed
• Don't swat at bees if flying too close for comfort - this may aggravate the bee and cause it to sting you

First Aid for a Bee Sting

If you do get stung by a bee, you can help the pain you receive from it by doing the following:

• Wash the area with soap and water
• Remove the stinger by using either a fingernail, or a firm straight edged object such as a credit card
• Avoid using tweezers when removing a stringer for it may release more venom.
• Put ice on the place you were stung
• Avoid scratching the area where you were stung

Allergic Reactions to "The STING"

Local reactions to a bee stings is what most people suffer after being stung by a bee.  These types of reactions are non-life threatening and symptoms may range from itching, burning, and swelling in the are where you were stung.

Allergic reactions can be deadly depending on the severity of your allergy.  People that are allergic to bees, should always carry an allergy kit, such as EPI-Pen.

Tips to Identify Allergic Reactions

When you or someone has been stung, an allergic reaction may include the following symptoms:

• Swelling in other parts of the body other than the location of the sting.
• Irregular breathing pattern.
• Tightening of the throat or chest.
• Dizziness.
• Nausea or vomiting.
• Fainting.
• Persistent pain and or swelling.

If you or someone notice any of these symptoms after being stung, seek medical attention immediately.

For more information on bee stings and or allergic reactions, please contact us at (315) 253-1560 or email your questions to cchealth@dfa.state.ny.us.