Medically reviewed by Dr. Sarah Khan, MD (Dermatology Specialist)
Author: Qamar Abbas, Health & Wellness Writer
Quick Answer
An infected bee sting typically shows increased redness, swelling, warmth, and pain around the sting site after 24–48 hours. You may also notice pus, red streaks, or fever, which indicate bacterial infection. Immediate care and medical consultation are recommended to prevent complications.
Understanding a Bee Sting Reaction
Bee stings often trigger mild pain, redness, and swelling — a normal immune response to bee venom. These symptoms usually fade within a few hours to a couple of days. However, when bacteria enter through the sting wound or if the stinger remains embedded, infection can develop, making it crucial to recognize warning signs early.
Normal reaction vs. infection:
| Reaction Type | Typical Symptoms | Duration | Medical Attention Needed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mild/Normal | Pain, redness, mild swelling | 1–2 days | No |
| Infected | Expanding redness, warmth, pus, fever | Lasts longer than 2 days | Yes |
| Allergic | Hives, breathing difficulty, dizziness | Immediate | Emergency care |
Early Signs of an Infected Bee Sting
1. Persistent Redness and Swelling
If the redness spreads beyond the sting site and continues to grow in size after 48 hours, it’s a possible sign of infection. Unlike normal swelling that peaks early, infected stings worsen over time.
2. Increasing Pain and Warmth
An infected bee sting feels hot to the touch and becomes more painful each day, indicating inflammation and bacterial activity under the skin.
3. Pus or Discharge
The appearance of yellow or green pus from the sting site signals infection. Avoid squeezing it — doing so can push bacteria deeper into the skin.
4. Red Streaks on the Skin
Red lines spreading outward from the sting mark can indicate cellulitis, a serious skin infection that requires antibiotics. This symptom should never be ignored.
5. Fever or Fatigue
Systemic symptoms like fever, chills, or body aches mean the infection may be spreading through your bloodstream. Seek medical care immediately in this case.
How to Treat an Infected Bee Sting
Step 1 – Remove the Stinger
Use a flat-edged object (like a credit card) to scrape the stinger out. Avoid using tweezers, as squeezing releases more venom.
Step 2 – Clean the Area
Wash gently with soap and warm water. This helps remove dirt and bacteria that could worsen the infection.
Step 3 – Apply an Antiseptic
Apply topical antiseptic or hydrogen peroxide to disinfect the area. Over-the-counter antibiotic ointments such as Neosporin can help reduce bacterial growth.
Step 4 – Use a Cold Compress
A cold pack can reduce swelling and ease pain. Wrap ice in a cloth; do not apply directly to the skin.
Step 5 – When to Use Oral Antibiotics
If symptoms don’t improve within 24–48 hours or worsen (especially if pus develops), contact your doctor. They may prescribe antibiotics to control infection.
When to See a Doctor
Call a healthcare provider immediately if you notice:
Spreading redness or streaks
Persistent fever or chills
Intense swelling beyond the sting area
Difficulty breathing or swallowing (possible allergic reaction)
For anaphylaxis a life-threatening allergic reaction call emergency services (911) or visit the nearest hospital.
👉 Read more on anaphylaxis from the CDC
Prevention Tips to Avoid Infection
Remove the stinger as soon as possible.
Wash your hands before touching the sting area.
Avoid scratching the wound.
Apply antibiotic cream promptly after cleaning.
Keep pets and children away from stung areas to prevent bacteria transfer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How long does it take for an infected bee sting to heal?
With proper treatment, mild infections heal within 7–10 days, while more severe cases may require antibiotics for two weeks.
Q2: Can a bee sting infection cause long-term issues?
If untreated, infection can spread to deeper tissues or the bloodstream, leading to serious conditions like cellulitis or sepsis.
Q3: What should I avoid putting on an infected sting?
Avoid applying alcohol, bleach, or toothpaste, as they can irritate the skin and worsen inflammation.
Q4: Can home remedies help with infection?
Mild cases may benefit from honey, aloe vera, or diluted apple cider vinegar, but seek medical care if symptoms persist.
