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Wasp sting mortality in Australia.
F McGain1, J Harrison, K D Winkel
1Department of Pharmacology, University of Melbourne, VIC.
The Medical Journal of Australia
|September 29, 2000
Summary
Fatal wasp stings are rare in Australia, with seven cases documented between 1979-1998. Most victims were men in rural areas with known allergies who did not carry epinephrine.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Allergology
- Public Health
Background:
- Wasp sting fatalities are infrequently documented in Australia.
- Hymenoptera stings can cause severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis.
- Previous allergy history and lack of emergency medication are risk factors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the characteristics and circumstances surrounding deaths from wasp stings in Australia.
- To identify risk factors associated with fatal wasp stings.
- To inform public health recommendations for managing Hymenoptera sting allergies.
Main Methods:
- Utilized data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics.
- Reviewed State coronial authority records.
- Analyzed seven identified cases of wasp sting fatalities from 1979 to 1998.
Main Results:
- Seven deaths attributed to wasp stings were identified over a 20-year period.
- All fatalities involved male individuals residing in rural areas.
- Five victims had a documented history of allergy to wasp or bee venom, or both.
- None of the deceased carried injectable epinephrine (adrenalin).
Conclusions:
- Individuals with a history of systemic Hymenoptera sting allergy require careful management.
- Assessment for venom immunotherapy is recommended for high-risk patients.
- Carrying epinephrine auto-injectors is crucial for those with known venom allergies.