When a wasp sting becomes dangerous

“Daimler CFO Jochen Goetz died “suddenly and unexpectedly over the weekend at the age of 52,” as the company announced. As has now become known, the father of two may have been killed by a wasp sting.

According to estimates, 300,000 people in Austria are allergic to the venom of wasps, bees and hornets – with the following symptoms: reddening of the skin, itchy rash, shortness of breath and abdominal cramps.

The most severe form is anaphylactic shock, which can lead to cardiac arrest. Experts advise anyone who has developed more severe symptoms after an insect bite to get tested. Affected people who know about their allergy should carry an emergency kit with them.

Tips against wasps

The environmental advice has tips on how to behave when a wasp is “approaching”:

• don’t lash out, keep calm
• Shake off wasps if they are on any part of the body
• Cover drinks and control before drinking
• Cover food and put away leftovers as soon as possible
• Wipe children’s mouths and hands after eating and drinking
• natural repellent: lemons and cloves, this combination of scents deters them
• Get rid of fallen fruit in the garden because it magically attracts wasps