Jun 20, 2025
As children spend more time outside in the warmer months, the risk of getting stung by a bee is higher. Tonight, on House Call, a medical professional from UHC explains how to keep your children safe this summer while enjoying the great outdoors.
1). How can you protect your child from getting stung?
Make sure your child wears light-colored, smooth-finished clothing. It is important to wear clean clothing and bathe daily. Remember to wear clothing to cover as much of the body as possible.
If your child encounters bees, it is important to remain calm and still, if a single stinging insect is flying around. (Swatting may cause the bee to sting.) If attacked by several stinging insects, run to get away. (Bees release a chemical when they sting, which attracts other bees.)
2). If your child is stung, what should you do?
Don’t panic, because if you remain calm, your child will also. Make sure to monitor your child to ensure they do not have an allergic reaction. Begin cleaning the affected area by washing with soap and water. You will want to remove the stinger using gauze wiped over the location of the sting. Make sure to apply ice to reduce swelling. Explain to your child to not scratch the sting, as this may increase swelling, itching, and risk of infection.
3). When should you seek medical attention for a bee sting?
Most often bites or stings do not require medical care but an allergic reaction from the sting can be an emergency situation. If a sting occurs from a honeybee, remove the stinger. Do not use tweezers since pinching the stinger will cause more venom to be released. Use a cold compress to reduce swelling. Over the next 24 to 48 hours, observe the site for signs of infection (such as increasing redness, swelling, pain).
This content was originally posted on the WDTV News website here.
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