PESTAWARE

Experts at British Pest Control Association (BPCA) are urging householders to be allergy aware after the tragic death of a retired nurse who is thought to have died following a reaction to bee stings.

Press reports that Kathleen Devine, an avid beekeeper, suffered a fatal allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to bee stings while harvesting honey, prompted the reminder from the national trade body.

Niall Gallagher is Technical Manager at BPCA. He said: “We cannot draw any conclusions until the Coroner has held an inquest, but this is a sad reminder that anyone can suffer from a reaction to stings, even if they have been stung before and not had a reaction.

“Honeybees are not generally aggressive and while they may attack if they feel the hive is threatened, stinging is usually a last resort for bees.

“Advice on stings and bites can be found at nhs.uk and if anaphylaxis is suspected, dial 999 and ask for an ambulance.”

More information about anaphylaxis, including signs and symptoms, what to do in an emergency and insect sting allergy, is available from Anaphylaxis UK; the only UK-wide charity operating solely for the growing numbers of people at risk of serious allergic reactions and anaphylaxis. 

BPCA member businesses are endorsed by the Government via the TrustMark quality scheme as they must carry the correct insurances and are trained and qualified technicians who are assessed to the British Standard in pest management EN 16636 and follow BPCA’s Codes of Best Practice.

To find a BPCA member visit: bpca.org.uk/find.

Source: Online