Stinging insect identification in children with Hymenoptera venom allergy and their parents

Abstract

Introduction: The treatment of Hymenoptera venom allergy (HVA) is based among others on the proper identification of the culprit insect.

Aim: To assess the accuracy in identifying stinging insects by children with HVA and their parents.

Material and methods: Participants were recruited from a paediatric medical centre. The data on their demographics, sting history and ability of insect identification (based on pictures) were obtained using a questionnaire. The study sample consisted of 102 children with HVA and their parents as well as 98 children without HVA and their parents.

Results: The rates of subjects correctly identifying insects in the groups were 91.2%, 92.5%, 78.8%, 82.4%, respectively. When compared to children with HVA, those without HVA were less likely to correctly identify the bee, bumblebee and hoverfly. In this group, the correct identification of the wasp was more common among children living in the countryside. The correct identification of the bee and bumblebee by children without HVA was more common among children living in the city.

Conclusions: Some children with HVA and their parents cannot correctly identify stinging insects despite previous life-threatening allergic reactions. The ability to identify stinging insects may depend on the HVA diagnosis and place of residence.

Keywords: Hymenoptera venom allergy; children; education; insect stings; parents.