WASPS
The European wasp can sting repeatedly and the stings are very painful. A European wasp sting causes burning pain, a raised lump, redness and local inflammation. Repeated stings may trigger an allergy, including life-threatening anaphylaxis. A European wasp looks similar to a bee and is around 15mm to 20mm in length with a bright yellow body. This insect likes to live around humans because of the ready supply of food and drink, especially sweet foods and drinks.
Lack of predators and good weather conditions means that the European wasp is an increasing problem in Australia.
Symptoms of a wasp sting.
Unlike a bee, which can only sting once (and leaves the stinger behind in the skin), the European wasp can sting repeatedly. It emits a scent chemical (pheromone) that alerts other European wasps to attack.
The sting of a European wasp has certain features, including:
• Burning pain
• Raised lump
• Redness
• Local inflammation.
Severe allergic reactions Although they are painful, isolated wasp stings seldom cause serious problems. However, the venom contains toxins that can cause allergic reactions in susceptible people. Around one in 10 people who are stung two or more times become allergic, which means they will experience severe reactions to any subsequent stings. The most severe allergic reaction of all is anaphylaxis, which
may be life threatening.
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You should seek urgent medical attention if:
• A child is stung more than 5 times
• An adult is stung more than 10 times
• Anyone is stung in the mouth or throat, as swelling in these areas can block the airways
• There is a severe allergic reaction
• There is a history of an allergic reaction to European wasp stings.
MORE MEDICAL INFORMATION FOR WASPS
