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Beware of wasps

The wasps can create hassles and also be a hazard to allergic people. Wasp nest treatments are extremely important to pest controllers as a source of income and the occasional sting is often seen as part of the job.  We report what the National Pest Technicians Association UK says.

All pest controllers that treat wasp (or bee) infestations should make themselves aware of the signs that they are suffering an allergic reaction to a sting. If not, perhaps you should as a severe reaction can lead to death. If that was not bad enough, evidence is emerging that insect stings could also lead to heart attacks in some individuals.  20160504_art_05In fact, it is now being suggested that deaths from such stings could very well have been underestimated as their causes had not been identified before.   It seems that in some people, a wasp or bee sting could cause an allergic reaction that results in a heart spasm, causing blood clots to form and thence a heart attack. It would appear that people with stents in their hearts are more at risk than most.  This condition is known as ‘Kounis syndrome’ and pest controllers with stents (used to alleviate symptoms of coronary heart disease) would be strongly advised to seek advice from their GPs.

Whilst it is a very rare syndrome and can be triggered by other allergic factors, if you are unfortunate enough to be susceptible, its rarity is irrelevant.

Advice to pest controllers, especially those with stents, is as follows:

* Consult with your GP about your individual circumstances. Take their advice, even if this is ‘stop treating wasps and bees’.

* When dealing with wasps and bees always wear your protective equipment.  It isn’t ‘macho’ to tackle such insects without wearing a bee-suit and gloves – it’s unprofessional, potentially very dangerous and therefore downright stupid.

* Keep your bee-suit clean, to remove any traces of distress pheromone that you may have picked up. * If you are taking medication for an ongoing medical condition, such as heart disease, make sure you take it when you should.

* Keep yourself hydrated, especially on hot Summer’s days when you are crawling around a baking roof space in your bee-suit!

* You don’t have to accept every job – especially those that put you at high levels of risk!

* If you have a heart condition and are stung, take an antihistamine tablet and seek medical advice.

* If you do not have a heart condition and are stung, watch out for any unexpected allergic reactions.  If you have any concerns, seek medical advice.

Anaphylactic Shock Danger Signs after an insect sting:

* Difficulty in breathing.

* A red, itchy rash and spread to areas beyond the sting.

* Swelling of the face, throat or mouth tissue.

* Wheezing or difficulty with swallowing.

* Restlessness and anxiety.

* Rapid pulse.

* Dizziness.

If you find such symptoms in yourself or anyone else, get emergency medical help immediately. You may have only a few minutes to act.