There is no age limit regarding insect allergies. They can affect anyone at any time, and can range from mild to severe. Regardless if it's a student or faculty member, reactions can be scary if you're not prepared.
Normal reactions to insect bites and stings include swelling, redness, and itching at the location. An allergic reaction is when the body overreacts to allergens in the venom. Typically, the first exposure to an allergen will not cause a severe reaction. However, it's always best to be prepared and in the know about how to react to and treat someone experiencing a reaction.
Certain insects pose more of a threat of severe reactions (life-threatening reactions are called anaphylaxis), than others. Bees, wasps, hornets, yellow jackets, and fire ants are the most common culprits. If you're aware of students with severe allergies, carry an allergy kit including antihistamine tablets and an epinephrine pen with you when the risks of students coming in contact with these insects are elevated. Also, don't be without a way to contact emergency personnel. Even if treated on site, the person experiencing the allergic reaction will need to be seen by medical professionals.
For mild reactions to bites and stings, cold packs, and medicines for pain, swelling, and itching can be used.
Other pests you'll want to watch out for this season are ticks, mosquitoes, chiggers, and fleas. Inspect your clothing before coming indoors to help reduce the risk of bringing them into your facility. This is especially important for fleas—you don't want to spend your summer battling these fast-multiplying critters!
Also check for ticks. Ticks are the second leading carriers of diseases to humans. (Mosquitoes are the first.) For more information about diseases ticks carry, click here.
For more information about insect bites and stings click here.
