Swarm of Bees Kills Dog, Hospitalizes Three at San Diego Backyard Gathering

A devastating incident occurred in a suburban area of San Diego, where one dog lost its life and three individuals were hospitalized due to a severe bee attack during a backyard gathering on a Wednesday. Tiffany Ahmu, a resident of Lemon Grove, recounted the harrowing experience to FOX affiliate KUSI, describing the air in her backyard as "thick with bees" and vividly detailing how her beloved 12-year-old boxer, Kona, was attacked by the swarm.

Tragic Outcome

Ahmu's heart-wrenching account revealed the tragic fate of her dog, Kona, who was "covered" in bees and appeared "limp" when she attempted to rescue her. Despite her efforts to shake off the bees in the pool, the emotional toll was evident as Ahmu herself was stung multiple times during the ordeal. Unfortunately, Kona later succumbed to her injuries at a nearby animal urgent care facility. Ahmu described her beloved companion as a playful, lively dog with an indomitable spirit, referring to her as having "Peter Pan Syndrome."

Hospitalization and Aftermath

In addition to Kona's tragic passing, two children present at the gathering also suffered from bee stings and had to be hospitalized for a brief period before being discharged. Medical personnel provided prompt treatment to the affected individuals, ensuring their swift recovery from the distressing incident. The exact species of the attacking bees remains unknown, leaving the community in shock and concern.

CDC Report and Statistics

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) published a report highlighting the alarming statistics surrounding bee-related fatalities. The report showed that from 2011 to 2021, there were 788 deaths attributed to hornet, wasp, and bee stings, averaging 72 fatalities per year. The annual death toll ranged from 59 in 2012 to 89 in 2017, with a staggering 89% of the victims being men. These figures underscore the potential dangers posed by bee stings, emphasizing the importance of caution when encountering swarms.

Expert Insights and Prevention

Duane Combs, the president of the Beekeepers Association of Central Arizona and a master beekeeper at the University of Montana, shared valuable insights into dealing with bees. He emphasized the significance of remaining calm when in the vicinity of bees, as the initial contact typically involves them "bumping" individuals rather than stinging. Additionally, honey bees are known to swarm during the process of establishing a new hive, primarily from spring to fall, according to Michigan State University Extension's Department of Entomology.

Swarm Encounter Tips

Experts advise individuals to take certain precautions to minimize the likelihood of attracting bee swarms. Some recommended measures include:

• Avoid wearing dark or loose clothing and shiny objects while engaging in outdoor activities, such as hiking.
• Refrain from using strong perfumes, colognes, or scented products.
• Maintain composed movements and avoid abrupt gestures near hives.
• Do not swat at bees, as this may provoke them.