AUSTIN, Texas — Seven people were attacked by a swarm of bees in Austin on Memorial Day.
Austin-Travis County EMS and Austin Fire Department responded to a bee swarm attack at Richard Moya Park Monday. EMS medics were able to evaluate and treat all patients involved. None required transport to the hospital.
There is no additional information at this time.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says insects including bees, wasps and hornets are very abundant in warmer months. Their nests and hives can be found in trees, under roof eaves or on equipment like ladders.
To prevent insect stings, the CDC has some tips:
- Wear light-colored, smooth-finished clothes
- Wear clean clothes and bathe daily
- Avoid soaps, shampoos and deodorants
- Avoid flowering plants if possible
- Keep work areas clean
- If a single stinging insect is flying around, remain calm. Swatting at it will cause it to sting.
- If you are attacked by several stinging insects at once, run to get away from them. Hide indoors if you can. Do not attempt to jump into water. Some insects can hover above the water and then continue to sting once you come up for air.
- If a bee comes inside your vehicle, stop the car slowly and open all the windows.
If you are stung, wash the site with soap and water. Remove the stinger using gauze wiped over the area or by scraping a fingernail over the area. Never use tweezers to remove the stinger. To reduce swelling, apply ice. Scratching the site may cause infection and increased swelling and itching.