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To avoid being bitten by a bee, listed below are some important information about bees:

Bees and their hives can be spotted almost anywhere in our environment including flower patches, brush, fields, trees, roof eaves, and under overhangs of structures.

In these areas, the bee can be in small numbers or have a whole army buzzing the scene. In either situation, it is good to know how to keep from pestering these insects so they will not pester you.

If a beehive is disturbed or provoked, a bee will protect it with its life. The statement is quite literal since a bee will die after releasing its stinger.

Victims of bee stings are often unaware of having an allergic reaction to the venom and consequently resulting in a lack of immediate attention to the affected area causing severe symptoms.

Below are some tips for avoiding bees and their stingers, but if happen to get stung, the article includes some guidelines and procedures to follow for treating a bee sting.

Avoid the Bees and Stingers

Bee stings can be very painful and some can cause severe health problems if allergic. Below is a list of way to prevent a bee sting:

• Always check for nests around your home, especially around warmer months (June, July, and August).
• Wear light color and clean clothing to avoid attraction from the bees. Sweat on clothes could cause the bug to be aggressive.
• Avoid consuming sugary foods and syrupy beverages while outside.
• Avoid strongly scented lotions, soaps, and deodorants. No perfumes or colognes.
• If your picnicking keep a good distance from trash receptacles and keep your tables, grills, and eating areas clean to prevent bees from flying near you.
• Remember that bees are generally not aggressive and only use their stinger out of self-defense: Do not bother them, they will not bother you. Do not swat at the bees, this will aggravate them.
• If attacked by bees try to run indoors or to an outdoor shaded area. Protect your face while running since this is the most likely place to be stung.

Treatment for a Sting

If you happen to be stung by a bee, follow the below procedures and guidelines to prevent the sting from worsening and to reduce and relieve any pain or swelling:

• Have someone monitor the victim for any allergic reactions.
• Wash the affected area with soap and water.
• Scrape the stinger out of the skin with a fingernail or flat edge. The stinger should never be taken out by tweezers since this will inject the venom into the body.
• Apply an ice bag wrapped in a towel or cloth to reduce swelling.
• Avoid scratching the sting so the chance of swelling and infection reduces.

Symptoms of Allergic Reactions to Insect Stings

• Hives and itching over the entire body
• Swelling of mouth or throat
• Shortness of breath, wheezing
• Nausea

If these signs are present, seek medical attention immediately.