News You Can Use

Don’t get bit or stung by bugs this spring

University Relations
News Bureau (662) 325-3442
Contact: Pam McTeer
May 11, 2005

STARKVILLE, Miss.—As springtime hits full bloom, annual bouts between humans and summer bugs are on the rise.

Despite what one may think of wasps, bees, hornets, and the like, they don’t sting at random, says Blake Layton, a Mississippi State University entomologist.

“We all have this innate fear of stinging insects because it hurts,” he observes. “We’ve all had the experience of being stung, but when you think back on it, you probably threatened the insect in some way.”

Layton says insects attack when they perceive a threat to their nests, though it may be something as casual as vibrations from a lawn mower or hammer. For that reason, he recommends that home owners and others take time to study where stinging insects are in their yard before they begin gardening or other outdoor activities.

Remember that, depending on the species, nests can be in the ground, as well as in trees and buildings.

Also, if it’s necessary to treat the nests with an insecticide, do so in the spring while nests are small and the occupants are less likely to sting.

If stung or bitten, don’t panic if localized swelling occurs. However, if difficulty breathing or any other serious side effects develop, immediately seek professional medical assistance. Some stings can cause serious, even life-threatening, medical problems, particularly in individuals sensitive to their venom.