Skip to main content
menu
URMC / Encyclopedia / Content

How Much Do You Know About Stinging Insects?

Picnics and barbecues and puttering in the garden are some of the delights of summer. But for some people, these pleasant pastimes are ruined by a fear of bees and wasps and other things that sting. Should you worry? Find out by taking this true-false quiz.

1. Most people are allergic to bee stings.
2. A person who is allergic to bees may develop red, itchy, raises bumps on the skin in response to a sting.
3. Honeybees are the culprits in most insect stings.
4. If a bee stings you, leave the stinger alone and don't try to remove it.
5. A paste of baking soda and water applied to the site of the sting may help relieve the pain.
6. Don't wear clothing with bright, flowery prints. This style of fabric may attract bees.
7. Plant flowers that bees aren't attracted to, to prevent getting stung in your yard or garden.
8. One good way to prevent bee stings is to use an insect spray or repellent.
9. Wasps often sting for no reason.
10. If you accidentally disturb a bee nest, you should stand perfectly still so the bees will leave you alone.

Medical Reviewers:

  • Fraser, Marianne, MSN, RN
  • Sather, Rita, RN
  • Wojcik, Stacey, MBA, BSN