It is estimated that between one and two million people in the United States are severely allergic to stinging insect venom. Each year 90 to 100 deaths from sting reactions are reported, but many more deaths may be occurring, mistakenly diagnosed as heart attacks, sunstrokes or attributed to other causes.
More people die each year from the effects of insect venom than from spider or snake bites.
Unlike most other allergies, insect allergy can cause a life-threatening disruption to breathing and circulatory systems called anaphylactic shock. For one person in 100, the sting of an insect can be fatal. Remember that if you are stung on the hand and your face begins to swell or hives break out all over your body, this is a serious condition requiring emergency room attention. Sting site is painful, reddened, may swell and itch, but will quickly dissipate. Sting site is more painful, swelling and itching may be present both at the sting site and in surrounding areas.