Many persons I talk to each year claim to be allergic to bee stings, presumably having been diagnosed as susceptible. Some carry sting kits of one nature or another prescribed by physicians. Injectable epinephrine pens, inhalants and antihistamines are also sold over the counter for this use. Most beekeepers are used to being stung by bees, and take it in stride as a necessary part of keeping honey bees. This intimate association with bee stings often dictates that beekeepers must take on the added responsibility of being a major source of information about them.
Answers can range from the most blase to sublime.
The question invariably arises, how good is the advice and where does it come from. Unfortunately, the facts about bee stings are shrouded in mystery and even the medical profession continues to be embroiled in controversly over the issue. This is the reaction of the vast majority of persons and those suffering it are considered to be at little risk of death, unless the mouth or throat is affected so that the respiratory tract is obstructed. Ironically, it may in fact be the reverse. Those far more at risk may show no reactions to stings at all.