WASP, HORNET, AND BEE STING

• move to a safe area to avoid additional stings
• scrape or brush off the stinger with a straight edge object, such as a credit card or the back of a knife.
• wash the affected area with soap and water
• don't try to pull out the stinger, doing so may release more venom
• apply a cold pack or cloth filled with ice to reduce pain and swelling
• apply hydrocortisone cream, calamine lotion, sting ease, or a baking soda paste
• take an antihistamine containing diphenhydramine (benadryl, Tylenol severe allergy) or chlorpheniramine maleate (chlor-trimeton, actifed)

FOR SEVERE REACTIONS

• severe reactions may progress rapidly, dial 911 or call for emergency medical assistance if the following signs or symptoms occure:

1. difficulty breathing
2. swelling of the lips or throat
3. faintness
4. dizziness
5. confusion
6. rapid heartbeat
7. hives
8. nausea, cramps and vomiting

NEXT STEPS

• check for special medications, such as an auto-injector of epinephrine (for example, EpiPen) massage the injection site for 10 seconds to enhance absorption
• have the person take an antihistamine pill if he or she is unable to do so without choking, after administering epinephrine
• have the person lie still on his or her back with feet 8-10" higher than their head
• loosen tight clothing and cover the person with a blanket, do not give them anything to drink
• turn the person on their side to prevent choking, if there is vomiting or bleeding from the mouth
• begin CPR, if there are no signs of circulation breathing, coughing or movement
• seek medical help