Yellow jackets are common during warmer months and can be a concern due to their aggressive nature. This article explains what yellow jackets are, how to manage risks, and what to do if stung.
Identifying Yellow Jackets
Yellow jackets are often mistaken for bees, but they are actually a type of social wasp. They possess bright black and yellow markings. Unlike bees, yellow jackets have slender, smooth bodies with a narrow waist where their abdomen connects to the thorax. Honey bees, in contrast, are typically hairier and more brownish-yellow, lacking the defined waist. Yellow jackets also exhibit a rapid, side-to-side flight pattern before landing, distinguishing them from other flying insects.
Understanding the Threat
Yellow jackets are a threat due to their aggressive nature, particularly when their nests are disturbed. Unlike honey bees, which sting once and lose their stinger, yellow jackets have smooth stingers and can sting multiple times without dying. This ability to deliver repeated stings increases the venom injected and the potential for a more severe reaction. Their venom causes immediate, sharp pain, burning, redness, and swelling at the sting site.
They often build nests underground in abandoned rodent burrows, or in cavities within walls, attics, or trees, making them difficult to spot. If a person unknowingly steps on or near an active nest, yellow jackets will aggressively defend their colony, potentially leading to multiple stings. Yellow jackets also become more aggressive in late summer and fall as their populations peak and natural food sources dwindle, making them more likely to scavenge for human food and sweets.
Responding to Stings
If a yellow jacket sting occurs, prompt treatment is important. For most people, reactions are localized, involving immediate pain, redness, swelling, and itching at the sting site. Basic first aid includes washing the area with soap and water. Applying a cold pack or ice wrapped in a cloth to the affected area for 10-minute intervals can help reduce pain and swelling. Over-the-counter pain relievers and topical anti-itch creams or lotions can also provide relief for mild symptoms.
A severe allergic reaction, known as anaphylaxis, can occur in some individuals and is a medical emergency. Symptoms of anaphylaxis can appear rapidly, often within two hours of the sting. These signs include difficulty breathing or wheezing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, hives or widespread skin rashes, dizziness, a rapid heart rate, nausea, vomiting, or a sudden feeling of weakness. If any of these severe symptoms develop, or if a person has a known history of severe allergic reactions, immediate emergency medical attention is necessary. Individuals with known allergies should carry an epinephrine auto-injector and use it as prescribed.
Minimizing Encounters
Preventive measures can significantly reduce the likelihood of yellow jacket stings. When outdoors, avoid bright-colored clothing and strong perfumes or scented products, as these can attract insects. Covering food and drinks, especially sugary items and meats, is important, and cleaning up spills promptly helps eliminate attractants. Ensure outdoor trash cans have tight-fitting lids and are emptied regularly.
Before using outdoor spaces, inspect them for signs of yellow jacket activity or potential nest entrances. If a yellow jacket is nearby, remain calm and avoid sudden movements, as swatting can provoke them. Slowly moving away from the area is often the best approach. For active nests located near homes or in high-traffic areas, contacting a professional pest control service is recommended for safe removal.