“After Hurricane Flooding, North Carolina Responds to Increased Bee Swarm Threat
North Carolina health workers have sprung into action following the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, where devastating flooding disturbed underground nests of bees and yellow jackets, causing them to swarm and pose a threat to residents in the region. The surge in requests for bee sting medication has prompted the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services to procure Benadryl and epinephrine injections for distribution through medical facilities and personnel.
Direct Relief, a humanitarian aid group, has also mobilized, dispatching over 2,000 EpiPen injections to health centers, clinics, and pharmacies across western North Carolina. Alycia Clark from Direct Relief notes the exceptional demand for EpiPens in response to this unique disaster situation, with many affected individuals seeking relief from bee stings, particularly outdoor workers like electricians.
State pharmacists are stepping in to offer emergency refills for individuals with existing allergy prescriptions. Plans are underway to facilitate the over-the-counter purchase of epinephrine injections, such as EpiPens, to ensure swift access to necessary medications. While most people do not suffer from severe allergic reactions to bee stings, the intense pain and swelling can persist, prompting the urgency of administering epinephrine in critical cases of anaphylaxis.
Experts advise protective measures to lower the risk of bee stings, including wearing appropriate clothing, avoiding scented products, and remaining calm in the presence of a solitary stinging insect. Swift action is crucial in the event of multiple stings to seek shelter indoors or in shaded areas to minimize further exposure. The article highlights the importance of timely medical intervention and the evolving response to mitigate the impact of bee swarms in the area.”
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