Case series of 23 deaths from Hymenoptera stings among United States Air Force populations

By

Voss, Jameson
Kugblenu, Richard K
Salter, Khabira
Johnson, Lucas
Reeves, Will

Type

Article

Date of Publication

2016

Original Publication

Journal of Hymenoptera research

Volume

48

Pages

95-99

Subjects

Air Force Mortality Registry , Bees , Hymenoptera , military , Mortality , stings , Wasps

Contributed by

Pensoft Publishers

Language

English

Published by

Washington, D.C International Society of Hymenopterists

Identifiers

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3897/JHR.48.7905

 

Abstract

Medical conditions arising from hymenopteran sting allergy or mass envenomation are a serious health concern, particularly in austere environments. Both practicing allergists and entomological pest control personnel should consider the relevance of stinging insects when responding to problems with Hymenoptera. Recent occupational reviews of civilian deaths from insect bites and stings prompted our review of the US Air Force Mortality Registry to determine the relevance of insect stings and bites as a cause of death in the US Air Force. After reviewing over 40 years of death records we identified 23 death records, among US Air Force Active duty, guard, or retirees that arose directly from hymenopteran stings.