HONEY BEE STINGING

WHAT THE MEDICAL & VETERINARY PROFESSIONALS OUGHT TO KNOW

Abstract

Stinging by honey bees may pose a significant life-threatening risk to human and animals. In USA, Hymenoptera (bees, wasps and hornets) are responsible for more human deaths than any other venomous animal9. Attacks by honey bees are particularly a problem in wooded hilly areas, grooves and parks etc., where swarms of bees are found hanging from the boughs of trees, in caves and on the walls of abandoned houses. Cattle, buffaloes, equines, dogs, etc., tethered under the shady trees harboring honey bees hives may receive a fatal assault by these flies. Attack may be provoked by children hurling stones at the hives or when noisy equipments such as tractors, thrashers, lawn mover etc., are operated in areas too close to honey bee hives. In addition, bees when enroute to new colonies may invade stables or yards where horses, cattle, buffaloes or other animals are housed. This paper is written to improve the competence of the medical professionals and veterinarians in handling the emergencies arising out of honey bee stinging. Wasps and hornets stinging may be treated along the same lines.