Mogadishu, Somalia – A 60-year-old man faced a life-threatening situation after being stung by a giant honey bee, experiencing multiple organ failure days following the incident. While bee stings are generally considered minor for most individuals, those who are allergic to bee venom can have severe reactions, including anaphylaxis.
In this particular case, the Somalian man suffered acute kidney and liver damage, along with fluid accumulation in his lungs, leading to difficulty in breathing. Despite having multiple stings and receiving a significant amount of venom, he did not have an immediate anaphylactic reaction. Instead, a delayed severe response resulted in multi-organ failure within 48 hours of the bee sting.
The medical team at Mogadishu Somali Turkey Training and Research Hospital reported this as the first documented case of multi-organ failure caused by a giant honey bee sting in Somalia. They highlighted the potential seriousness of bee stings, emphasizing that even though they are often perceived as minor, they can lead to critical medical complications.
The man, who resided in a rural area with limited healthcare facilities, delayed seeking medical attention until a week after being stung multiple times during honey bee harvesting. Upon admission to the hospital, he presented with respiratory distress, oliguria, red marks, swelling, and puffy eyes, indicating signs of systemic complications.
Medical tests revealed acute liver and kidney injury, as well as bilateral pulmonary edema. The patient responded well to a comprehensive treatment approach involving steroids, antihistamines, and intravenous fluids, showing significant improvement and ultimately being discharged after seven days of hospitalization.
In the United Kingdom, anaphylactic reactions to bee or wasp stings result in two to nine deaths annually, with wasp stings causing twice as many fatalities as bee stings. Allergy UK outlines the varying reactions to bee stings, ranging from normal localized pain and swelling to severe allergic reactions affecting the entire body.
Recognizing the symptoms of anaphylaxis is crucial, as severe reactions can be life-threatening, emphasizing the importance of prompt medical attention in such instances. Knowing how to respond to bug bites and stings, including proper treatment measures and when to seek professional help, can make a significant difference in ensuring a positive outcome for those affected.