Probability of Dying from a Bee or Wasp Sting

Deaths from bee, wasp, and hornet stings are relatively uncommon, with lifetime odds of approximately 1 in 53,989 according to the National Safety Council. About 60-80 people die from insect stings in the US each year, almost exclusively from anaphylaxis (severe allergic reaction).

The primary risk factor is having a venom allergy. Approximately 5-7.5% of the population will experience a severe allergic reaction to insect stings in their lifetime. Men, adults over 40, and those with previous severe sting reactions are at higher risk of fatal anaphylaxis. Most deaths occur within one hour of the sting.

People with known venom allergies should carry an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen) at all times and wear medical alert identification. Venom immunotherapy (allergy shots) can reduce the risk of a severe reaction by 97%. General prevention includes avoiding wearing bright colors or floral patterns outdoors, not walking barefoot on grass, avoiding scented products when outdoors, and staying calm near stinging insects rather than swatting at them.