If you get stung by a wasp, here are the recommended steps to take:

1. Clean the Affected Area
   • Wash the sting site thoroughly with soap and warm water to remove venom and reduce the risk of infection.
2. Reduce Swelling and Pain
   • Apply a cold pack or ice wrapped in a cloth to the sting site for 10 minutes on and 10 minutes off.
   • Continue this process for 30 to 60 minutes as needed.
   • Elevate the limb if the sting is on an arm or leg to help reduce swelling.
3. Relieve Symptoms
   • Take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen to manage pain and reduce swelling.
   • Use antihistamine medications or creams (diphenhydramine or calamine lotion) to alleviate itching and skin irritation.
   • Hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion can also help soothe itching.
4. Remove the Stinger (if present)
   • Unlike bees, wasps usually do not leave their stinger behind, but if you see one, carefully scrape it away with a credit card or similar object without pinching the venom sac.
5. Monitor for Allergic Reactions
   • Watch for symptoms of severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) such as swelling of face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing, hives, dizziness, rapid pulse, nausea, or loss of consciousness.
   • If severe symptoms occur or the person has a known allergy, seek emergency medical help immediately and use an epinephrine auto-injector if prescribed.
6. Seek Medical Care If
   • The sting is in the mouth, throat, or around airways.
   • The person is stung multiple times (more than 5 for children, more than 10 for adults).
   • There is a history of allergic reactions to wasp stings.
   • There is prolonged or worsening swelling, pain, or signs of infection.

By following these steps, most wasp stings can be treated effectively at home with relief from pain and swelling. However, always be alert to the possibility of severe allergic reactions requiring emergency care. This advice covers basic first aid and when to seek urgent medical attention after a wasp sting. It is important to act quickly, especially for people known to have allergies to insect venom. If stung and allergic, use an epinephrine auto- injector immediately and call emergency services. For non-allergic mild stings, cleaning, icing, and symptomatic treatment are usually sufficient.