overview
- Floods in North Carolina caused by Hurricane Helen have led to an increase in yellow jacket activity.
- The heavy rain and standing water have likely destroyed insect nests in trees and underground.
- The state health officials have taken measures to provide Benadryl and EpiPens in response to the stinging incidents, especially for those with allergies.
Severe flooding in western North Carolina from Hurricane Helen has disrupted yellow jacket colonies, raising the risk of stings.
Chris Hayes, an urban entomology extension specialist from North Carolina State University, mentioned that the rain and flooding have not only caused trees to fall, exposing nests, but also potentially destroyed the underground nests of the insects.
“They are out and about like many people,” Hayes explained.
North Carolina health officials have procured a large quantity of Benadryl and EpiPens to address the situation.
“We are working to ensure that Benadryl and epinephrine are easily accessible to residents in Western North Carolina who may be allergic or have experienced stings,” stated Summer, a spokesperson for the state Department of Health and Human Services. Tonizzo
Medications will be distributed through healthcare providers, hospitals, and emergency medical services, Tonizzo added.
Tonizzo mentioned that it is common for yellow jackets and other stinging insects to be less active after a hurricane.
Hayes mentioned that his parents observed yellow jackets on a property in Wilkes County, a mountainous region in the west of the state.
“My father was removing some trees in the yard. [My mom] “They texted me and said, ‘Hey, there are yellow jackets nesting on these trees,'” he shared.
Taren Pruitt, a 42-year-old registered nurse from West Jefferson, North Carolina, noted an increase in yellow jacket sightings following the hurricane.
“I can’t even go outside with my kids without seeing one or two,” Pruitt commented.
She also mentioned reports of power line workers getting stung while trying to restore power in the area and her efforts to provide supplies, including chewable Benadryl, through churches to these workers.
Most people do not have severe allergic reactions to wasp or bee stings, but the area can be painful, itchy, and swollen. Benadryl, either orally or topically, can help alleviate these symptoms. EpiPen injections are for those who have severe allergic reactions, like difficulty breathing or swallowing.
Hayes noted that people allergic to bees are likely to be allergic to yellow jackets as well, with varying levels of reactions.
Tonizzo stated that the North Carolina State Board of Pharmacy can provide emergency refills for prescribed allergy medications and is working on issuing a standing order for EpiPens so that anyone without a prescription can obtain them.
Yellow jackets are known to be more aggressive than wasps, and when threatened, they release pheromones that signal others to attack.
Hayes explained that yellow jackets are more aggressive in the fall due to food scarcity and impending winter.
He warned that some colonies may struggle after the storm, as efforts to clear fallen trees might limit their access to food sources.
“If you encounter a disturbed yellow jacket nest, contact the National Park Service. It is advisable to leave slowly Cover sensitive areas of your face with your hands for protection.
Hayes recommended that residents in western North Carolina wait to cut down trees until the insects have left or do so at night when they are less active.
For those with severe allergies to insect toxins, always carry an EpiPen Seek immediate medical attention if stung.
Source: www.nbcnews.com
