Photo byMathew SchwartzonUnsplash

As West Virginia moves into fall, the Department of Health is issuing an urgent warning to residents about a notable rise in emergency room visits related to bee and wasp stings. Compared to last year, the number of sting-related incidents has spiked, largely driven by the aggressive behavior of wasps like yellow jackets and hornets. Officials believe this increase has been exacerbated by ongoing drought conditions, which are altering wasp behavior and increasing human encounters.

Environmental Shifts Driving Aggressive Behavior

The dry conditions in West Virginia have impacted flowering plants, depriving wasps of their usual food sources. As noted by the state's public health entomologist, Eric Dotseth, this has made yellow jackets particularly aggressive as they now search for alternative sources of food, including sugary drinks and human waste.

“Yellow jacket wasps are particularly aggressive at this time of year,” Dotseth explains. “With low precipitation affecting flowering plants, these wasps are in search of food, leading to increased encounters with humans.”

As summer turns to fall, yellow jackets naturally shift from hunting their natural prey to seeking out sugary foods. This behavior is heightened in times of drought, leading to increased encounters near garbage bins, picnic areas, and even residential yards. Without their typical food sources, these wasps become more aggressive, defending their territory and swarming into unexpected places in search of sustenance.

Health Risks of Bee and Wasp Stings

While most bee and wasp stings are not life-threatening, they can cause a range of reactions—from mild discomfort to severe allergic responses like anaphylaxis. The Department of Health emphasizes that understanding the symptoms of a sting and knowing how to react can be life-saving.

• Mild Reactions: Localized pain, swelling, and redness around the sting site. These symptoms can typically be treated with over-the-counter medications.
• Moderate Allergic Reactions: Hives, itching, and more pronounced swelling. These reactions may still be manageable at home but can sometimes require medical attention.
• Severe Reactions (Anaphylaxis): Symptoms such as difficulty breathing, nausea, dizziness, a rapid heartbeat, fainting, and swelling of the face, throat, or tongue require immediate medical intervention. Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening emergency, and those who are prone to it may need to carry an epinephrine auto-injector, commonly known as an Epi-Pen.

How to Protect Yourself from Stings

West Virginia Department of Health Secretary Sherri Young, DO, MBA, FAAFP, advises the public to enjoy the remaining warm weather safely. "We want people outside enjoying these last few weeks of nice weather; however, we want them to do so securely. Take extra precautions to ensure you and your family are protected from bees and wasps, and make sure you know how to react in the event someone is stung.”

To help minimize the risk of stings, residents are urged to follow these precautions:

1. Cover Food and Drinks: Keep food, drinks, and especially sugary items covered when eating outdoors.
2. Proper Waste Disposal: Dispose of garbage promptly and avoid leaving sugary residues in recycling bins.
3. Avoid Attracting Bees and Wasps: Refrain from wearing shiny objects, dark bright colors, floral patterns, or strong perfumes that can attract wasps and bees.
4. Stay Calm Around Wasps: If you encounter a wasp, stay calm and move away slowly without swatting, as aggressive movements can trigger attacks.
5. Protective Clothing: When working outdoors, especially with loud machinery, wear long sleeves and pants to reduce exposure.

Rising Cases and Precautionary Measures

Data from local emergency services shows a sharp increase in bee and wasp sting cases in 2024 compared to the same time last year. While long-term data on yellow jacket activity remains limited, the trend is concerning enough for officials to urge West Virginians to take action.

Those who experience any symptoms of anaphylaxis following a bee or wasp sting should call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately.

Staying informed and prepared can help mitigate the risks of stings as West Virginia transitions into fall, allowing residents to continue enjoying the outdoors safely.