As summer winds down following what the Met Office has tentatively declared the hottest UK summer on record, the risk of wasp and bee stings remains. Though September has seen wet weather across many areas, insect stings are still possible, particularly during this transitional season.
In the UK, approximately half the population will experience at least one sting in their lifetime, making it a common occurrence. However, some individuals may develop allergic reactions to the venom introduced by wasp or bee stings.
According to Allergy UK, wasp and bee stings can occasionally trigger severe, life-threatening allergic reactions, making it essential to recognise the symptoms and understand the appropriate response. Each year, about ten deaths are attributed to such reactions, with wasp stings leading to twice as many fatal anaphylaxis cases as bee stings, largely because wasps can sting multiple times.
Kelly Fisher, a health and wellbeing nurse at Benenden Health, has highlighted nine symptoms that should never be ignored after a sting, as they may indicate an allergic reaction requiring urgent attention. Kelly explains that a typical sting causes immediate sharp, burning pain, followed by a raised, red, itchy lump and possible minor swelling near the sting site. Although redness may be less visible on darker skin tones, the swelling or raised area can generally be felt.
More severe allergic reactions, known as anaphylaxis, occur when the body massively overreacts to the venom. Symptoms of anaphylaxis include dizziness, nausea or vomiting; stomach cramps; weakness; persistent coughing; hives; a sense of impending doom; swelling of the mouth or throat; wheezing; and difficulty breathing.
Kelly emphasises that while most minor symptoms appear within minutes, the most serious anaphylactic reactions can develop very swiftly after the sting. Monitoring any changes in how you feel is therefore critical.
She advises that if you have never been stung before and are uncertain whether you have an allergy, you should treat the sting and remain in a safe place to observe your symptoms closely. Although most stings improve without intervention, medical help should be sought if symptoms exceed a normal localized reaction, if stung in vulnerable areas such as the mouth, throat or near the eyes, if vomiting occurs, if multiple stings are received, or if there is a history of serious allergic reactions to bites or stings. In such cases, contacting NHS 111 for advice is crucial.
The NHS has also shared guidance on treating wasp stings at home: wash the affected area with soap and water or antiseptic to reduce infection risk, apply an ice pack wrapped in a cloth or a clean cloth soaked in cold water to the sting for at least 20 minutes, and keep the stung limb elevated if possible.
Being aware of these symptoms and knowing how to respond can help manage the risks associated with wasp and bee stings as the summer season concludes.