Symptoms of a moderate general or anaphylactic reaction include: Generally, the sooner the reaction begins, the more severe it will be.Īn anaphylactic reaction occurs when the body's immune system overreacts to the insect venom by releasing chemicals such as histamine that trigger the allergic reaction. Stings hurt or itch for one to two days but the swelling may last for up to a week. A small number of people may experience a much more serious anaphylactic reaction to insect stings, either immediately after being stung or in the subsequent few hours. First aid treatment for these symptoms include ice packs or wet cloths to reduce pain and antihistamine tablets or creams, hydrocortisone cream, or calamine lotion to reduce itching and inflammation. Most people will experience pain, itchiness, redness and swelling around a bee or wasp sting site. It is estimated that two or three people die in New Zealand each year from insect sting reactions.Ĭommon insect sting symptoms and treatment However, a small percentage of the population will experience a more serious general or anaphylactic allergic reaction to insect stings that can affect the whole body and may be life threatening. For most people, an insect sting (most commonly in New Zealand from wasps, honey-bees, or bumble-bees) will result in moderate, short-term symptoms and straight-forward treatment.