Preventing Bee Stings

To prevent stings from bees, wasps, yellow jackets, and hornets: Avoid flowering plants, gardens, and trees with ripe fruit, where bees spend their time. Do not use perfumes, scented soaps, or suntan lotion. Do not wear bright colors, flowered prints, or rough-textured fabrics (such as wool), all of which attract bees…

Preventing Bee Stings

Topic Overview

To prevent stings from bees, wasps, yellow jackets, and hornets:

  • Avoid flowering plants, gardens, and trees with ripe fruit, where bees spend their time.
  • Do not use perfumes, scented soaps, or suntan lotion.
  • Do not wear bright colors, flowered prints, or rough-textured fabrics (such as wool), all of which attract bees.
  • Do not swat a bee or throw an object at a bee or wasp hive. Bees are more likely to attack if they feel threatened.
  • If caught in or near a swarm of bees or wasps, move away with slow, deliberate movements.

Credits

Current as ofApril 7, 2019

Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review: William H. Blahd Jr. MD, FACEP – Emergency Medicine
Adam Husney MD – Family Medicine
Martin J. Gabica MD – Family Medicine

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