What are Wasps?
A hollow stinger at the rear of the wasp's body injects venom when it penetrates the skin. These stings can be quite painful.
Social wasps construct paper nests in various shapes and sizes, some visible and others hidden. Depending on the wasp species, the paper nest can be fully enclosed with an opening near the base or have an open structure.
Should I be concerned?
Wasps often visit outdoor gatherings due to their attraction to sweet foods and protein foods earlier in the season. Stings can occur when people or animals disturb wasps that are hunting for food or when they accidentally approach a nest, triggering a defensive reaction from the nest-guarding wasps. However, wasps may sometimes attack people or animals even when seemingly unprovoked.
Several thousand people are stung by these venomous insects each year. In some rare cases, severe allergic reactions to the venom have caused death. Seek medical attention immediately if your response to a sting includes unusual swelling, itching, dizziness, or shortness of breath.
Unlike bees, wasps can sting more than once. Wasps can also damage ripe fruit by creating holes when they eat the flesh.
Wasps can be beneficial in many ways. Workers catch insects like flies and caterpillars and carry them back to the nest to feed the developing larvae. They also act as pollinators when they visit flowers for nectar. Additionally, they are a food source for small mammals, birds, and spiders.
What to do if you are stung by a wasp ?
Stings can be soothed with ice packs or a baking soda paste. A wasp's venom is very potent. Some people have allergic reactions and need medical attention. If the effects of a sting are severe, you should see a doctor immediately. Effective anti-venom shots can reduce the number of severe reactions in vulnerable people.
How can I get rid of wasps?
Prevention
Physical control
Because they are also attracted to sweet food and strong scents, avoid leaving food or drink uncovered when eating outside.
Don't wear scented products like perfume and hairspray.
Keep all garbage covered in tightly closed containers until it can be thrown out.
Avoid walking barefoot on lawns or grassy areas, especially in late summer when wasps are more abundant and active.
Traps
Be aware that there may be more wasp activity around baited traps, so they should not be placed close to play areas or other human activity places. These traps can be helpful in the short term during outdoor events where wasps can be drawn away from food-serving areas.
Nest removal
If the nest must be removed when the wasps are active, it should be done in the evening when wasps are least active. Nest removal can be dangerous, and extreme caution must be used due to the risk of attack by a large group of wasps. Although a homeowner (with enough protection) can remove a nest, professional help is recommended.