The best way to avoid a sting, is to avoid insects.

"The bugs that we're looking for or thinking about are the bees that are in the garden or flowering areas,” says Charlene Howard, nurse practitioner for the Grayson County Health Department. “We're thinking about spiders, mosquitoes."

If you're eating outside, keep food covered as much as possible to avoid attracting insects. Cover trash cans with tight-fitting lids, and avoid sweet-smelling colognes and sprays.

"Particularly with the bees, if you're working in gardening areas wear clothing that will protect you, gloves, that sort of thing,” Howard says.

Keep in mind that insect repellents will not protect you from stinging insects. If you do come in contact with a flying insect, don't swat at it violently. You're more likely to get stung. You can try to gently brush it aside or wait for it to leave.

If you've had an allergic reaction to a sting, it's important that you see an allergist.

“Certainly, if you're choking, short of breath, you need to go to the hospital,” she says. “Don't wait."

If you get stung again, there's a good chance you'll have a similar or even worse reaction!