Wasps and bees do not transmit disease organisms, but can cause painful stings and allergic reactions. The ovipositor of the female bees and wasps has become adapted to form a poison stinger that is used to inject venom into prey or can be used as a defensive mechanism.

The effect of the sting in most non-sensitized persons produces local pain, swelling and redness, which pass harmlessly in a few hours.

Medical attention may be needed for stings in the mouth, or multiple stinging where cases of anaphylactic shock can be fatal. Anaphylactic shock or death can occur in people who are particularly sensitive to bee or wasp stings. In these people, a gradation of allergic reactions can occur, including:

Slight Reaction - Inflammation, welts, itching, malaise and anxiety developing within an hour after the sting.

General Reaction - In addition to the symptoms of a slight reaction, swelling, chest constriction, wheezing, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting or dizziness may also occur.

Severe General Reaction - Further symptoms are difficulty in breathing or swallowing, hoarseness, confusion, or a feeling of impending disaster.

Shock Reaction Cases - In addition to the above, cyanosis or a bluish discoloration of the skin, a drop in blood pressure, collapse, incontinence or unconsciousness.

More than 500,000 people in the U.S. are attacked each year by these insects, suffering painful stings, allergic reactions, and death to more than 100 persons. Some 26% of the U.S. population are sensitized to the venom of the sting, with 4% experiencing systemic reactions and 5% suffering allergic reactions.