Hymenoptera stings prevention

Both bees and wasps only sting in defense of themselves or their nests. Most bites occur between the months of May and September.

Bees are attracted by the fragrance of flowers, bright colours and a calm water surface. Therefore, if you want to avoid these accidents you should avoid using bright clothes or strong perfumes during the period of greatest activity.

Wasps are also attracted by the presence of juices and sugary liquids.

General recommendations for preventing bites during peak periods (May to September) are:

• Do not go near beehives, honeycomb or wasp nests. If this happens accidentally, go away from them with slow movements.

• If a bee or wasp lands on any part of your body, do not try killing or scaring it. It is better to stay quiet and make only slow movements until it goes away.

• As the smell of food attracts insects, be careful when cooking, eating or drinking sweet drinks like soda or juice outdoors. Keep food covered until served.

• During the hot season, if you drink a sugary liquid, check for any bees or wasps on the edges of the container.

• If clothing is left on the ground it should be shaken before wearing as there may be a wasp in its folds.

• Wear closed shoes and avoid walking barefoot.

• Refrain from walking in flowering orchards, clover fields or any area with abundant flowers. Avoid pruning trees or hedges and mowing the lawn.

• Wear non-brightly coloured clothes and do not wear perfumes or hair sprays when going to the countryside.

• Avoid collisions with these insects, which can occur when riding a horse, bicycle, motorcycle or in convertible cars, in areas where there is an abundance of flowers.

• Warn children not to throw stones or branches into the insects’ nests.

• In pools, try not to step on wasps around the showers, where they go to drink.

Insects are more likely to bite if they feel their home is threatened, so it is important to destroy hives and nests near your house. Since this can be a dangerous activity, you should contact qualified personnel.

 
Allergy recommendations index.

© Sanialergia