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Mass envenomations by honey bees and wasps
R S Vetter1, P K Visscher, S Camazine
1Department of Entomology, University of California Riverside 92521, USA. vetter@citrus.ucr.edu
The Western Journal of Medicine
|May 27, 1999
Summary
Mass stinging events from honey bees and wasps can be life-threatening due to venom toxicity. Prompt medical care improves survival rates for victims of severe insect stings.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Emergency Medicine
- Entomology
Background:
- Stinging incidents involving honey bees and wasps are infrequent.
- Most severe reactions result from anaphylactic shock after few stings.
- Mass stinging events pose a significant threat due to venom toxicity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review literature on mass stinging events caused by honey bees and wasps.
- To understand the clinical effects and outcomes of mass envenomation.
- To prepare for increased incidents with Africanized honey bee spread.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of mass stinging events.
- Analysis of venom composition and toxic effects.
- Review of clinical outcomes and management strategies.
Main Results:
- Both honey bee and wasp stings can cause systemic damage, including hemolysis, rhabdomyolysis, and acute renal failure.
- Fatalities are often linked to renal failure or cardiac complications.
- Africanized honey bees may increase the frequency of mass envenomation incidents.
Conclusions:
- Mass envenomation by honey bees and wasps can lead to severe systemic toxicity and organ damage.
- Supportive care is crucial for managing victims of mass stinging events.
- Survival is likely with appropriate medical intervention, even after hundreds of stings.
