FAYETTE CO. OFFICIALS RESPOND TO BEE ATTACKS

  

Fayette County EMS is cautioning residents after a bee attack on Thursday in the Schulenburg area, one of several reported in recent days.

According to Fayette County EMS Director Josh Vandever, Thursday’s incident resulted in multiple people being stung, including one victim who was flown to Dell Seton Medical Center in Austin and an EMS employee who experienced a major reaction and was transported to a local emergency department.  Both are expected to recover.  

Schulenburg Volunteer Fire Department Assistant Chief Drew Brossmann told the Fayette County Record that the bee attack was prompted by a resident mowing along a fence line in the backyard, near a wooded area.  According to Brossmann, the resident was reportedly stung over 1,000 times.

Brossmann said a search of the property was unsuccessful in determining where exactly the bees came from, though it is possible their hive could be located in one of the trees in the wooded area nearby.

Responding to Thursday’s call were Fayette County EMS, the Schulenburg Volunteer Fire Department, Washington County EMS and Gonzales County Emergency Service District 1.  Gonzales County and Lavaca County also assisted with bringing in ambulances when all Fayette County units were out on calls.

Vandever told the Record that Thursday’s incident was one of three related to bee swarms over the past two days, with each one seemingly increasing in severity.  

Vandever said anyone who encounters a large bee hive or hornet nest should bring in the fire department, a beekeeper or, if necessary, an exterminator. 

If someone is caught in a swarm, they should attempt to get as far away as possible from the first point of attack.  If they are allergic to stings, they should also ensure they are carrying an epi pen or another similar type of medication, and if they experience a severe reaction, they should seek out medical help immediately.