Texas bee swarm hospitalizes 3; Arkansas doctors explain warning signs of severe reactions

LITTLE ROCK (KATV) — A bee swarm attack in Texas sent three people, including a firefighter, to the hospital this week, while Arkansas medical experts said most bee stings are not dangerous but can become life-threatening in certain cases.

Authorities in San Antonio said the three victims were hospitalized after being swarmed and stung by aggressive bees. Officials have not released details on what triggered the attack or the species involved.

Doctors in Arkansas said the biggest risk from a bee sting is not the sting itself, but a severe allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis.

“The concern when you have a bee sting is if you develop a severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis,” said Dr. Garrett Lewis, chief medical officer at St. Vincent Infirmary.

Lewis said warning signs include throat swelling, difficulty breathing and feeling faint, which require immediate medical attention.

“If you’re experiencing any throat swelling or severe shortness of breath, you need to seek medical care immediately,” Lewis said.

He added that people who are stung multiple times may also be at risk even without a known allergy, because each sting introduces additional venom into the body.

In the event of a swarm, Lewis said the priority should be escaping the area as quickly as possible and removing any stingers once safe.

“Seek water, seek indoor,” Lewis said. “Once you’re away from the swarm, you want to make sure that you are removing any stingers that might still be in your skin.”

Lewis also said symptoms such as dizziness, nausea and widespread hives can indicate a serious reaction.

While the Texas incident resulted in hospitalizations, a recent swarm outside a Little Rock business ended without injuries after bees briefly gathered on a tree limb before being safely removed by a beekeeper.

Lewis said the best prevention is awareness of surroundings and understanding when medical care is needed after a sting.