As the aftermath of Hurricane Helene continues to unfold in western North Carolina, a new threat has emerged: swarming yellow jackets, bees, and other insects. This article explores how the state is working to protect its residents from the dangers of these stinging pests, including the distribution of Benadryl and EpiPens to aid those in need. The story highlights the importance of emergency preparedness and the critical role of first responders and humanitarian aid organizations in supporting communities during natural disasters.
Battle of the Bugs: Stinging Insects Obstruct Hurricane Cleanup
Meanwhile, Hurricane Helene has broken up underground nests of yellow jackets and other insects which are deciding they need new homes. Forced up from below, they swarmed and began stinging the very people who are trying to get back on their feet in the wake of the hurricane.
The surge in bites has also sent an influx of people predisposed to allergic reactions from insect venom asking for medication. North Carolina health authorities are buying up massive amounts of Benadryl and epinephrine injectors to send to hospitals, ambulance workers, and doctors across the affected region. Direct Relief, a humanitarian aid organization, has also played a role in the effort by delivering over 2,000 EpiPen injections to community health centers, clinics and pharmacies throughout western N.C.
Naturally, Those Bitten First Responders and Outdoor Workers Hardest
The biggest victims of the swarming pests have turned out to be people laboring outside, such as electricians out trying to restore power lines and other essential infrastructure. Direct Relief chief pharmacy officer Alycia Clark said many of the people affected are frontline workers and there’s been an especially high demand for emergency allergy medications in this disaster.
The state of North Carolina is proactively working to guarantee citizens will have all the medications they need in time. The state also will allow pharmacists to provide emergency refills for people with current prescriptions for allergy medicines and is working on a way to sell epinephrine auto-injectors, such as EpiPens, over-the-counter. The state is also aggressively collecting and distributing from donated supplies of essential medications to assist the impacted communities.
Protective Gear from Stinging Insects : Preparedness Strategies for Disasters
Although some people are not allergic to insect stings, it still can be a painful and discomforting experience with severe swelling for days. In the case of severe allergies, a sting can trigger anaphylaxis — an acute allergic reaction to venom that can cause hives and itching all over the body, swelling of the tongue and throat, irregular heartbeat or weak pulse, and in some cases even loss of consciousness. Immediate use of epinephrine is mandatory in these instances.
Experts say there are several steps that can minimize the chances of being stung: wearing long, smooth (not textured) clothes made of a light-colored fabric, avoiding products like perfumes and strongly scented deodorants and shampoos, remain still or calm if a single stinging insect starts buzzing around you. Avoid a swarm and seek refuge indoors or in the shade With a little forethought and preventative measures, people can ensure they put their best foot forward after natural disasters like Hurricane Helene – which disrupts the nests of these insects that present an additional threat as communities recover.
