Wasp stings are painful but for most people they are not dangerous — the pain, swelling, and redness resolve within a few hours to a few days. However, for a small percentage of people, a wasp sting can trigger a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) that requires immediate emergency treatment.
Approximately 4 people die from wasp and bee stings in the UK each year. This guide covers first aid for normal stings, how to recognise an allergic reaction, and when to call 999.
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First Aid for a Wasp Sting
Wasps inject venom through a smooth stinger. Unlike bees, wasps do not lose their stinger — a single wasp can sting multiple times. Only female wasps have stingers.
Most stings can be treated at home:
Clean the area — wash the sting site with soap and water to reduce infection risk.
Apply a cold compress — hold an ice pack or cold flannel on the sting for 10 minutes to reduce swelling and pain.
Take an antihistamine — an over-the-counter antihistamine (cetirizine, loratadine) reduces itching and swelling.
Pain relief — paracetamol or ibuprofen helps with pain. Avoid aspirin for children under 16.
Do not scratch — scratching increases swelling and infection risk.
A normal reaction includes sharp pain, redness, and swelling up to 5–10cm around the sting. These symptoms peak within a few hours and resolve within 1 to 3 days.
Allergic Reactions and Anaphylaxis
Large local reaction — swelling extends well beyond the sting site, for example a sting on the hand causing the entire forearm to swell. This is uncomfortable but not life-threatening. It may take 5 to 10 days to resolve. See your GP if swelling is severe or spreading.
Anaphylaxis — call 999 immediately if you see any of these signs after a sting:
Difficulty breathing, wheezing, or swelling of the throat. Swelling of the face, lips, or tongue. Dizziness, feeling faint, or collapse. Rapid heartbeat. Nausea, vomiting, or stomach cramps. A widespread rash or flushing across the body.
Use an adrenaline auto-injector (EpiPen) immediately if prescribed. Lie the person down with legs raised (unless they are struggling to breathe — sit them up). Do not leave them alone until paramedics arrive.
Multiple Stings and Stings in the Mouth
Multiple stings — which can happen when a nest is disturbed — are dangerous even for non-allergic individuals. The cumulative venom load can cause severe pain, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and in extreme cases (50+ stings) organ damage.
Seek medical attention if stung more than 10 times, or fewer if you feel unwell. Children, the elderly, and people with existing health conditions are at higher risk.
Stings in the mouth or throat — a medical emergency regardless of allergy status. This can happen when drinking from a can or bottle that a wasp has crawled into. Swelling in the airway can obstruct breathing.
Call 999 immediately. Suck on an ice cube to slow the swelling while waiting for help.
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Reducing Your Risk and When to Get Help
Stay calm around wasps — swatting or flapping makes them more likely to sting. Move away slowly.
Cover food and drinks outdoors — especially sweet drinks and ripe fruit during August and September.
Check cans and bottles — before drinking outdoors, wasps crawl inside open containers.
Avoid strong scents — perfume and scented lotions attract wasps.
Wear shoes in the garden — ground-nesting wasps can sting bare feet.
If you or a family member has a known wasp allergy, carry your prescribed EpiPen at all times during wasp season and ensure family members know how to use it. A wasp nest near your property is a serious risk — call for same-day treatment on 0203 468 1999 or visit our Wasp Removal page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a wasp sting kill you?
Yes, but it is rare. Approximately 4 people die from wasp and bee stings in the UK each year, almost always from anaphylaxis. If you experience difficulty breathing, facial swelling, or dizziness after a sting, call 999 immediately.
How long does a wasp sting last?
A normal sting causes pain for 1 to 2 hours, with swelling and redness resolving within 1 to 3 days. A large local reaction can take 5 to 10 days to fully resolve.
Should I put vinegar on a wasp sting?
There is no strong evidence that vinegar helps a wasp sting. A cold compress and over-the-counter antihistamine are the most effective treatments. Avoid home remedies that could irritate the skin further.
Can you become allergic to wasp stings over time?
Yes. Allergy can develop after previous stings — even if earlier stings caused only a normal reaction. If your reaction to stings has been getting worse each time, speak to your GP about allergy testing and whether you need a prescribed adrenaline auto-injector.
Do wasps sting for no reason?
Wasps sting in defence — they feel threatened by sudden movements, vibrations near the nest, dark clothing, or strong scents. In late summer, wasps become more aggressive because the colony is dying and workers are competing for food. They may sting with less provocation during this period.
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