How to avoid and treat Yellow Jackets stings

Resist the urge to swat, slap and run away. The wasps may perceive rapid movement as even more threatening.

Move away slowly, covering your face with your arms, and keep moving.

If you’ve disturbed the whole colony and many wasps have come for you, run into a densely shaded spot; wasps prefer bright sunlight.

Don’t jump in a pond if one is nearby. The wasps will hover around waiting for you to surface, then immediately attack your head.

HOW TO TREAT YELLOW JACKET STRINGS

If you do get stung …  Most people develop pain, redness and swelling around the site of a wasp sting.

Self-care involves spreading a paste of baking soda or table salt and water over the area immediately after then sting, later applying an ice pack to reduce the swelling.

But some people have a severe, potentially life-threatening, reaction to a yellow-jacket sting, or stings.

Get medical attention immediately if:

You’ve received many stings.

You’ve been stung in the mouth or throat.

You begin wheezing or sweating profusely.

You have difficulty breathing or speaking.

If your throat or chest feels tight.

You break out in hives. 

You feel nauseous, dizzy, or severely anxious. 

Talk to your doctor about carrying emergency medication to use in case this happens again.

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