Why do some people have allergic reactions to insects and others do not?

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Answer

For the same reason that some people are allergic to peanuts or milk and others aren't. It's partly environmental (based on your exposure to the offending item) and partly genetic. My brother used to catch and crush (yeah he was troubled) bees, and they often stung him. One day he had a severe reaction and has to avoid bees. Maybe it's karma but his doctor says he developed the allergy thru overexposure to bee venom. Other people can have a fatal reaction to their first bee sting.

First answer by mike d. Last edit by mike d. Question popularity: 118 [recommend question]