Epidemiology of bee stings in human populations in Iran

Animal bites and stings, especially from venomous insects like bees, are significant public health concerns worldwide. In Iran, a comprehensive epidemiological study on bee sting incidents is lacking; thus, this study aims to identify the factors influencing these events using data collected by the Ministry of Health and Medical Education in 2024. This retrospective, descriptive, multi‑center, registry‑based study was conducted from January 1 to December 31, 2024. Data were collected from the national CDC online system, including demographic and clinical information from 466 patients who met the inclusion criteria and analyzed using SPSS Statistics to identify associations among variables. A total of 466 bee sting cases were recorded in the national registry in Iran during 2024. The mean age was 35.1 ± 18.5 years (range: 2 months–91 years), with a predominance of male cases (65%). The majority of incidents occurred among housewives, with peak sting occurrences in July and August, reflecting seasonal bee activity. The hand was the most commonly affected anatomical site (44%), and 60% of patients sought medical attention within three hours of being stung, with antihistamines being the most commonly prescribed treatment (79%). This study provides a critical epidemiological profile of bee sting cases in Iran, addressing a significant knowledge gap in a country with limited data on envenomation. The findings reveal demographic patterns, seasonal trends, and clinical outcomes that align with international research, highlighting the predominance of cases among middle-aged males and the importance of prompt medical attention in achieving favorable recovery outcomes. The study underscores the urgent need for targeted public health interventions, enhanced medical training on envenomation, and the establishment of a national registry to improve understanding and management of bee sting incidents in Iran.