What to do if you get stung by a yellow jacket?

What to do if you get stung by a yellow jacket? If you get stung by yellow jacket, first move away from nest to avoid more stings, as yellow jackets can sting multiple times and release alarm pheromone. Wash sting area with soap and water to prevent infection. Remove any stinger if present, though yellow jackets usually do not leave stinger like bees. Apply cold compress or ice pack for 10 to 15 minutes to reduce swelling and pain. Take antihistamine like diphenhydramine for itching and swelling, and pain reliever like ibuprofen or acetaminophen for pain. Elevate area if swelling is large. Do not scratch. Watch for allergic reaction signs like difficulty breathing, swelling of face or throat, hives, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, which require immediate emergency care and epinephrine if prescribed. For most, symptoms improve in hours to days. Clean area daily and apply hydrocortisone cream for itching. If swelling worsens, signs of infection, or multiple stings, seek medical care.