Survival guide: What to do when attacked by a swarm of wasps

KATHMANDU: Wasps are territorial insects that can become highly aggressive when they feel their nest is under threat.

A swarm attack is not only painful but can also be life-threatening, especially for individuals with allergies.

Here is an in-depth guide on how to respond if you find yourself under attack by a swarm of wasps:

1. Stay calm & move quickly

• Do not swat at the wasps: Waving your arms or swatting at the insects only increases their aggression.
• Run for cover: Your priority should be to put distance between yourself and the swarm. Head for an enclosed space like a building, car, or any shelter that can keep the wasps out.
• Avoid prolonged exposure: The longer you stay within the swarm, the higher the risk of multiple stings, which can lead to severe reactions.

2. Protect your vulnerable areas

• Use your hands, clothing, or any available material to shield your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• If you’re wearing loose clothing, ensure it doesn’t trap wasps inside, as they may sting repeatedly while trying to escape.

3. Avoid water as a hiding spot

While it might seem logical to jump into a pool or body of water, wasps can hover above the surface and wait for you to resurface. This tactic may prolong the attack rather than stop it.

4. After reaching safety

• Close all entry points: If you’ve entered a car or building, make sure doors and windows are securely closed to keep the wasps out.
• Check for lingering wasps: Carefully inspect your body and clothing to ensure no wasps remain trapped.

5. Treat stings promptly

For minor stings:

• Wash the affected area with soap and water to prevent infection.
• Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling and ease pain.
• Over-the-counter antihistamines or hydrocortisone creams can help alleviate itching and swelling.

For severe reactions:

• Symptoms like difficulty breathing, swelling of the throat, dizziness, or hives could indicate anaphylaxis, a life-threatening allergic reaction.
• Use an epinephrine auto-injector (if available) and seek emergency medical assistance immediately.

6. Prevent future encounters

• Avoid wasp-attracting behaviors: Brightly colored clothing, strong perfumes, or sweet foods can attract wasps. Be mindful of these when outdoors.
• Inspect outdoor spaces: Regularly check your surroundings for wasp nests, especially in sheltered areas like eaves, tree branches, or garden sheds.
• Hire professionals for nest removal: Never attempt to remove a wasp nest on your own. Contact pest control experts to handle the job safely.

Understanding the risk

Wasps typically sting to defend their nest, and unlike bees, they can sting multiple times. While most people can tolerate a few stings, a swarm attack can result in dozens or even hundreds of stings, potentially causing a dangerous buildup of venom.

Those with known allergies to insect stings should carry an epinephrine injector and wear medical alert identification.

Key Takeaways

• Act quickly but avoid panicking.
• Seek shelter immediately and minimize exposure.
• Treat stings promptly, and monitor for signs of severe reactions.
• Stay informed and take precautions to avoid encounters with wasps.
• Use a cold compress to reduce swelling.

If stung multiple times or feeling dizzy, nauseous, or short of breath, seek medical help immediately.

Reminder:

Wasps attack when they feel threatened. Avoid wearing strong perfumes, brightly colored clothing, or getting too close to their nests to reduce the risk of an encounter.

By staying calm and following these steps, you can minimize the risk of severe injury and protect yourself during a wasp attack.

Always prioritize safety and seek help if needed.