What's eating you? vespids revisited.

The Hymenoptera order of insects includes Apidae (bees), Vespidae (wasps, yellow jackets, hornets), and Formicidae (fire ants). All 3 of these families of insects inject venom into their prey or as a defense mechanism via ovipositors in their abdomen. Three types of reactions can be seen after a vespid sting: uncomplicated local reactions, large local reactions, and systemic reactions (SRs). Although many vespid stings can be managed symptomatically, it is imperative for patients and providers to be aware of the possible severe reactions that can take place.