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Warning! This blog contains content that may be graphic to those with a disdain for bugs!
Wasp sting treatment starts with quick, calm first aid. Most stings are minor, but some can be serious. Learn what to do, how to prevent stings, and which types of wasps you’re likely to see in California.
Immediate burning pain, redness, and swelling at the sting site
Itching that may last several hours
In rare cases: hives, trouble breathing, dizziness, or swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat (seek emergency care)
Move to safety. Leave the area to avoid additional stings.
Clean the site. Wash with soap and water.
Reduce swelling. Apply a cold pack for 10 minutes at a time.
Ease symptoms. Consider an oral antihistamine and over‑the‑counter pain relief as directed. Calamine or hydrocortisone cream can reduce itching.
Watch for allergy signs. If you have hives, breathing trouble, or throat swelling, call 911. People with known severe reactions should use an epinephrine auto‑injector as prescribed.
Unlike honey bees, most wasps do not leave a stinger in the skin. If you see one, remove it gently by scraping with a card or fingernail.
History of severe reactions to stings
Multiple stings, stings on the face or neck, or stings in the mouth
Signs of infection within 24–48 hours (increasing redness, warmth, pus, or fever)
Do not spray or knock down an active wasp nest on your own. Social wasps can sting multiple times and defend their colonies. For safe wasp nest removal, call a licensed professional.
Yellowjackets (e.g., Western and German yellowjackets)
Paper wasps (including European paper wasp)
Bald‑faced hornet (aerial yellowjacket)
Mud daubers
Tarantula hawk wasps
Western cicada killer
Keep food covered outdoors; clean up spills quickly
Seal trash cans and rinse recyclables
Repair screens and seal gaps where wasps can enter structures
Avoid wearing strong fragrances outdoors
Call for an inspection if you see persistent wasp traffic
A: Clean the area, apply a cold compress, and take an antihistamine if needed. If symptoms worsen or you experience trouble breathing, seek medical help immediately.
A: Pain usually subsides within a few hours, but swelling and redness can last up to two days.
A: Most are mild, but allergic individuals may experience life‑threatening reactions. Always monitor symptoms carefully.
A: Yes, unlike bees, wasps can sting multiple times without dying.
A: If you spot a wasp nest near your home or business, or notice aggressive wasp activity, contact Cal King Pest Control for professional removal.
