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Pledge to Help Hurricane Survivors Facing Deadly Swarms

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Sponsor: The Rainforest Site

Hurricane survivors are under siege by aggressive yellow jackets, yet health responses lag—act now to protect our communities from this life-threatening, preventable crisis.

Hurricane survivors are under siege by aggressive yellow jackets, yet health responses lag—act now to protect our communities from this life-threatening, preventable crisis.

Hurricanes leave behind more than just structural damage. They disrupt entire ecosystems, forcing insects like yellow jackets and bees out of their nests and into storm-affected communities. This year, Hurricane Helene destroyed the underground habitats of these stinging insects, driving them into populated areas where residents and recovery workers are at risk of painful and potentially life-threatening stings1.

Health departments across North Carolina report an alarming increase in requests for emergency allergy medications such as Benadryl and EpiPens. The situation is critical as health officials scramble to make these treatments available in hospitals, clinics, and local pharmacies1. While most people can recover from a single sting, anaphylaxis—a severe allergic reaction—poses a real threat, especially for those stung multiple times. Emergency response teams have already reported incidents of residents suffering severe allergic reactions, many of whom required immediate medical intervention2.

The Danger of Yellow Jackets After Flooding

Yellow jackets, known for their aggressive nature, are more than just a nuisance in hurricane aftermaths. These insects can sting multiple times, and when disturbed, they release pheromones that signal others to attack. This behavior has made yellow jackets especially dangerous to those trying to restore power lines, clear debris, and rebuild their homes3. Floodwaters not only displaced these insects but created the perfect breeding grounds for others, such as floodwater mosquitoes, that will pose additional health risks as standing water lingers4.

In response, the state has issued special provisions allowing pharmacists to dispense allergy medications, including EpiPens, without prescriptions. Humanitarian aid groups have joined in, sending thousands of doses of essential allergy medication to affected areas. While this is a crucial step in the right direction, it’s not enough to keep people safe. We need preventive measures and broader community awareness to help people protect themselves and those around them5.

How You Can Help

After any hurricane, the threat of stinging insects is only one of the many hazards survivors face. But it’s a threat that can be managed with the right knowledge and preparation. By signing this pledge, you are committing to proactive measures that will help safeguard yourself, your family, and your community from the dangers of stinging insects in future storm seasons.

By signing, you’re advocating for actions that reduce risk, increase safety, and support a healthier, more prepared community. Together, we can help minimize the impact of these invasive pests and ensure that those in hurricane-impacted areas are equipped to handle these threats before they become life-threatening.

Take the pledge today to protect yourself and your loved ones from the threat of stinging insects following hurricanes. Stand with us in calling for accessible allergy treatments, community education, and personal preparedness to make a safer future for everyone.

More on this issue:

  1. KVIA (4 October 2024), "North Carolina distributing Benadryl and EpiPens as yellowjackets swarm from Helene flooding."
  2. Devi Shastri, PBS NewsHour, (5 October 2024), "North Carolina distributes EpiPens and Benadryl as stinging insects swarm after Helene."
  3. Jaymie Baxley, North Carolina Health News (27 September 2024), "Flooding from Helene likely to cause a mosquito outbreak in NC."
  4. Jim Waymer, Florida Today (27 September 2024), "UF scientists give a few tips to prevent uninvited post-Helene pests."
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The Pledge:

In the wake of hurricanes, displaced stinging insects like yellow jackets and bees can pose unexpected dangers to those rebuilding their lives. By making health-conscious and safety-driven choices, we can help prevent stings, reduce allergic reactions, and ensure that both ourselves and others stay safe during this challenging time.

I pledge to take the following steps to protect myself, my family, and my community from the threats posed by these aggressive insects.

10 Actions to Take for Safety Against Stinging Insects

  1. Wear Protective Clothing: I pledge to wear long sleeves, long pants, and light-colored clothing when outside to reduce the chances of attracting stinging insects and to create a physical barrier if they are present.
  2. Avoid Strong Fragrances: I pledge to avoid using perfumes, colognes, and scented soaps or lotions, as these can attract stinging insects and increase the likelihood of a sting.
  3. Seal Food and Drinks Outdoors: I pledge to cover any food and sugary drinks when outdoors to avoid attracting yellow jackets, which are often drawn to the scent of food and drink.
  4. Remove Standing Water: I pledge to remove standing water from around my home to reduce breeding grounds for insects, especially mosquitoes that can also thrive after floods.
  5. Stay Calm Around Insects: I pledge to remain calm and avoid swatting if a yellow jacket or bee approaches, as sudden movements can provoke them to sting.
  6. Know Local Emergency Resources: I pledge to familiarize myself with nearby health resources, including local pharmacies that can dispense EpiPens, in case an emergency arises.
  7. Check for Nearby Nests: I pledge to inspect my property for active nests around structures, gardens, and wooded areas and to hire professionals if removal is necessary.
  8. Avoid Wearing Bright Colors Outdoors: I pledge to avoid wearing brightly colored clothing, which can resemble flowers and attract bees and wasps.
  9. Educate My Family and Neighbors: I pledge to share this information with family and neighbors, so everyone is aware of the risks and knows how to avoid potential stings.
  10. Prepare an Emergency Kit: I pledge to keep an emergency kit with allergy medications, including antihistamines and, if applicable, an EpiPen, so I can respond quickly in case of a sting.

A Safer Tomorrow for All

By taking these simple, proactive steps, we can collectively reduce the risk of stinging insect-related injuries and health complications in hurricane-impacted areas. Together, we’re not only protecting ourselves but also promoting a healthier, safer community for the future.

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