Is It Dangerous To Have Stinging Insects On My Nassau County Property? 

It can make you uneasy when a wasp or bee shows up while you're working in your landscaping or garden. You know those stinging insects can cause a burning, painful wound on your skin. But is that the extent of the threat they present? Today, we're going to give you some insight that can help you protect yourself and your family from rare encounters that can be dangerous.

Stinging Insect Allergies

You are probably aware that wasps and bees can be deadly. This may be why the title of this article attracted your attention. How deadly are they?  Experts say the chance of potentially life-threatening allergic reactions to insect venom is quite low. It is between .4 and .8 percent for children and 3 percent for adults. But, while low, this is not a threat to shrug off.

Why Is Insect Venom Life-Threatening

If you are stung by a wasp, bee, or some other stinging insect, it is possible to have an anaphylaxis reaction. One dangerous symptom of anaphylaxis is a rapid drop in blood pressure, which can cause the human body to go into shock. This can happen within only a few short minutes of being stung. If you experience any symptoms other than localized pain, it is wise to seek medical attention. Some symptoms include:

• Dizziness
• Stomach cramps
• Nausea
• And swelling of the tongue, throat, or body.

What Many People Don't Know About Stinging Insect Allergies

Allergic reactions can worsen as you get older and increase in severity with subsequent exposure. You can have many normal reactions and then have a sudden, life-threatening reaction. You shouldn't think that you're in no danger because you were stung as a child and had no reaction. But, you also shouldn't assume that you'll have a bad reaction because you're getting older. You don't need to fear bees or wasps. It is just best to be respectful of the threat they present.

How To Protect Yourself

There is a direct way to reduce the threat of a severe allergic reaction to insect stings. If you are at risk, you could bolster your immunity through immunotherapy. It is estimated that this can provide as much as 98% protection. If you have concerns, consult a physician to see if this is right for you.

How To Lower Your Chances Of Being Stung

The place you're most likely to be stung is in your backyard, especially if it is where you spend the highest percentage of your time outside. But you don't need to be worried about every bee or wasp that comes into your yard. These insects aren't looking to sting you when away from their nests and foraging for nectar. If you move away from them without swinging your arms, your chances of being stung are lower. Here are a few more tips to help with prevention:

• Always look before you sit down on an outdoor chair. You're going to get stung if you sit on a stinging insect.
• Always examine cups before picking them up. Stinging insects are attracted to liquids, particularly sweet liquids. You may also consider using cups with a cover, so you don't attract bees or wasps to your drink.
• Wear something on your feet when you walk around in your yard. It is surprisingly easy to step on a bee by accident.
• Store your bagged garbage in covered receptacles. Wasps are attracted to trash. They're also attracted to the scent of trash, so try to keep your exterior receptacles as clean as possible.

The Role Nests Play

It is okay to have wasps or bees visit your home. They're important for pollination, and wasps help with controlling spider populations. But there is a danger when stinging insects create a nest. One of the most important ways you can protect yourself is to catch nests early and remove them. You may be able to do this yourself in the spring. As a wasp starts to make tiny, gray starter nests on your exterior, you can sweep it away with a broom during the day while the female wasp is getting materials to build that nest. For more developed nests, it is wise to have a licensed professional remove the nests or treat voids that have a nest inside. A pest professional can also help with early detection as residential pest control plans come with routine inspections.

If you live in Nassau County, remember that Parkway Pest Services can assist you with all your pest control needs. We can come and remove a nest from your property or give you ongoing protection from stinging insects by catching nests early. Connect with us today to learn more or to schedule service.