Wasps and hornets become significantly more aggressive toward humans during early autumn as their natural food supplies dwindle, biologist Dmitry Safonov warned in comments to state news agency RIA Novosti.
Doctors record their highest number of patient visits for wasp and hornet stings during the autumn months, when insect attacks peak and cause severe skin redness and allergic reactions.
By September, insect nests reach their maximum size just as the breeding season comes to an end. With fewer internal food sources remaining inside the colony, worker wasps and hornets venture out aggressively to search for sweet nectar and ripe fruit.
Hornets and wasps belong to the Vespidae family of stinging insects. Unlike honeybees, which store large reserves of honey to survive winter, wasp colonies naturally die off in late autumn, leaving only newly mated queens to hibernate. During late summer and early autumn, worker insects lose their primary food source of sugary larval secretions as reproduction stops, driving them to seek external sugar sources in human environments.
Where insect encounters happen
Safonov noted that these insects are most frequently encountered by people visiting summer houses and holiday cottages, shopping at outdoor markets, or standing near garbage containers.
To reduce the risk of being stung, Safonov advised against leaving sweet foods and fruits uncovered in the open air. He also recommended fitting protective mesh screens on windows and doors, avoiding sudden movements if an insect approaches, and never attempting to dismantle or destroy an insect nest without professional help.
First aid for stings
For those who are stung, the biologist suggested applying a cold object directly to the affected skin area and taking an antihistamine medication. He emphasized that anyone experiencing severe swelling or difficulty breathing must seek immediate medical attention.
Insect stings inject venom that can trigger localized inflammation or severe systemic allergic reactions known as anaphylaxis. Antihistamines help block histamine chemical receptors in the body to reduce swelling, itching, and tissue irritation.
The warning follows additional guidance for sting victims provided by allergist-immunologist Vladimir Bolibok. Bolibok recommended that individuals prone to allergic reactions place ice, a packet of frozen dumplings, a piece of meat from the freezer, or any other frozen item on the site of the sting to quickly reduce local inflammation.
