Africanized Bees & Side Effects of Multiple Stings

Africanized bees, also known as killer bees are a rare sighting in most of North America; however, they have become more common in areas like Arizona and Texas since the 1990s, as they are attracted to warmer climates. Africanized bees were brought to South America in the 1950s to breed more efficient bees, adapted to the tropical regions of Brazil. Once introduced, they began to breed with other bee species, like the European honey bee, forming a hybrid version of both bees. Africanized bees are more protective of their hives than honey bees and attack more aggressively. There were 190 reported deaths from Africanized bee attacks between 1988 and 1993, reports the U.S. National Library of Medicine.

Shock, Coma and Death

• Shock and coma are the most serious bodily responses to Africanized bee attacks, and indicate that the body is unable to cope with the large amount of venom coursing through its system. Coma occurs when the body shuts down non-vital processes to protect vital organs. Death results when the victim's system is completely overwhelmed by bee venom and organ failure occurs.

Weakness, Dizziness and Fatigue

• Multiple Africanized bee stings can cause a victim to experience weakness, dizziness and fatigue. Most of these effects are result of 50 or more bee stings, which cause an accumulation of venom in the victim's body. Although serious, these symptoms are often the result of non-fatal Africanized bee attacks, but it is still advised to seek medical care, states U.S. National Library of Medicine.

Vomiting and Diarrhea

• Vomiting and diarrhea also are side effects that usually result from an Africanized bee attack. A swarming of 100 or more Africanized bees yields a large amount of venom, which is released into the victim's system. The body responds by trying to flush out the toxins, through vomiting and diarrhea.