Why is my child reacting to a sting?

• A sting injects venom into the skin.
• This venom causes the reaction - usually pain, redness and swelling.  
• Insects that have stingers include honeybees, wasps, bumble bees, yellow jackets, hornets, and imported fire ants.

What are the symptoms of a sting?

• Pain, swelling and redness around the area of the sting.
  • Pain usually lasts for one to two hours.
  • The swelling usually improves in 48 hours (about 2 days).
  • It may still take five to ten days to return to normal.
• Hives may develop around the area or even on other parts of the body.
• A sting on the face may lead to eyelid swelling as well.
• Imported Fire Ants may cause:
  • a pus-filled bump
  • trouble breathing.
  • feeling like their throat is closed  
  • hoarse voice or wheeze.
  • swelling of lips or other parts of their body
  • feeling dizzy or faint  

How do I prevent my child from getting stung?

• Wear shoes while outside.
• Watch for bees while in pools.
• Be careful in orchards, gardens, and areas with lots of flowers. Dumpsters and trash cans are another attractant, keeping your children away from these areas is best.
• Check for nests and hives around your house and where your children play.
• Avoid colorful clothing and floral prints – instead, wear colors like white, khaki, green, or tan.
• Avoid swatting at or running from stinging insects, it is best to walk away calmly to avoid angering the insect.
• Some foods attract stinging insects. Try to avoid eating the foods listed below when outside:  
  • Tuna, peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, watermelon, sweetened drinks, ice cream and frozen treats  
• Insect repellants are not effective for prevention of stings. 

What if my child is allergic?

• If your child has a known allergy to insect stings:
  • Always have their EpiPen available.
  • Make sure all care providers are aware of their allergy.
• Remember: if your child’s EpiPen is used, call 911 for more help! 

What is the treatment for a sting?

• Cool compresses can help provide comfort and relieve swelling.
• Ibuprofen and Tylenol can help with pain treatment .
• You do want to remove the stinger if a portion of it sticking out (only honeybees leave the stinger in).
• Keep the area covered if your child continues to itch or pick at it.
• It is okay to apply anti-itch remedies that are age appropriate and available over-the-counter.
• Infections from stings are rare, but if you notice streaking redness, swelling continues beyond 48 hours (about 2 days) or your child has a fever your child needs to be seen.
• If your child has an allergy to stings, follow your child’s allergy plan.
• If your child has an EpiPen and you think your child has been stung, give the EpiPen and call 911. 

Call your provider if:

• You think your child needs to be seen.
• Swelling is worsening after 48 hours (about 2 days).  
• Your child has a fever.
• Your child’s symptoms are getting worse.
• Your child has a known allergy to any of these stinging insects.
• You notice red streaks spreading around the area of the sting.  

Call 911 if:

• Your child is having trouble breathing or swallowing.
• Your child needed to use their EpiPen. 

This publication was adapted from information within American Academy of Pediatrics Patient Education Handouts, UpToDate Guidelines and Healthychildren.org

Reviewed by: TT D.O, AR D.O. | 10/2023