Anyone can become allergic to bee and wasp stings, but those most likely to become bee allergic are bee keepers. Those who work in gardens are also more likely to become either wasp or bee allergic. It is unusual to be allergic to both insects.

Insect stings are more common in children, but children appear to be less likely to experience severe reactions. In the USA, it is estimated that potentially life-threatening systemic reactions to insect stings occur in around 1 in 150 children, compared to 3 out of 100 adults. While severe reactions can occur as a result of a sting, deaths from stings are extremely rare, and mainly affect older people.