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PHOENIX (May 22, 2018) – There are some simple steps you can take to make sure bees don’t crash your summertime activities, says Frank LoVecchio, DO, associate medical director of Banner Poison and Drug Information Center.

Swarms happen most frequently in May and June in Arizona. The poison and drug information center can get dozens of calls during bee season from people worried being stung by bees.

“It is hard for us to know how many bee stings can kill you. But one bee sting can kill you if you are allergic,’’ LoVecchio said.

LoVecchio's remarks on downloadable video --ready for editing

People should assume that the bees they encounter in Arizona are “Africanized’’, which means they are more aggressive and unpredictable, according to University of Arizona research. “This seems to be the ideal place for them to live,’’ LoVecchio says.

The single best thing to do with a swam of bees is to out run them, LoVecchio says. Hopping in the swimming pool may not be the answer since the bees can wait for you; and as you emerge from the pool, your face and neck can be especially vulnerable to stings.

If you are stung by a bee and are concerned, please seek medical care or call the Poison and Drug Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.

About Banner Poison and Drug Information Center

The Banner Poison and Drug Information Center is a phone call away, and can be reached at 1-800-222-1222. The center provides a free, 24-hour Emergency telephone service for both residents and medical professionals of Maricopa County. For more information, visit www.BannerHealth.com/poisoncenter.