5 Stinging Bugs Allergy Test
Below is a plain-language overview of the 5 stinging bugs allergy test. The 5 Stinging Bugs Allergy Test is a blood test that checks for allergic antibodies to five common stinging insects: honeybee, yellow jacket, yellow hornet, white-faced hornet, and paper wasp. It is usually ordered after a sting reaction or when a doctor wants to identify which insects may trigger an allergy.
- Sample type
- blood
- Category
- Allergy
- Turnaround
- 1-3 business days
- Price
- $159
- Referral
- Not required
The 5 Stinging Bugs Allergy Test is a blood test that checks for allergic antibodies to five common stinging insects: honeybee, yellow jacket, yellow hornet, white-faced hornet, and paper wasp. It is usually ordered after a sting reaction or when a doctor wants to identify which insects may trigger an allergy.
What it measures
- Honeybee (Apis mellifera) IgE — Antibodies that may react to honeybee venom.
- Yellow jacket IgE — Antibodies that may react to yellow jacket venom.
- Yellow hornet IgE — Antibodies that may react to yellow hornet venom.
- White-faced hornet IgE — Antibodies that may react to white-faced hornet venom.
- Paper wasp IgE — Antibodies that may react to paper wasp venom.
Who it is for
A doctor may order this test if you had a strong reaction after a sting, such as swelling beyond the sting site, hives, or breathing trouble. It can also help evaluate whether allergy shots for insect venom might be appropriate.
Preparation
No fasting or special preparation is needed. Tell the lab about any medicines you take, because some drugs can affect allergy test results.
Results and what they mean
Results are reported as a level for each insect, often grouped as negative, low, moderate, or high. A clinician interprets these levels alongside your symptoms and history, since a positive result alone does not always mean you are allergic. This is general information, not medical advice; discuss your results with a qualified healthcare professional.
How to order this test
- Choose the test and place a confidential order online.
- Select a certified collection site and pick a time that suits you.
- Have your specimen collected — most draws take only a few minutes.
- Review results in a secure portal, typically within 1–3 days.
Preparation, hours, and pricing vary by site; confirm details directly with the lab before your visit.
Availability by state
Direct-access online ordering for the 5 stinging bugs allergy test is available in most states. It is currently unavailable in 6 states:
Everywhere else you can order confidentially and collect your sample at a certified site. Browse by state →
Frequently asked questions
Does a positive result mean I am allergic?
Not always. A positive result shows antibodies are present, but only a clinician can decide whether that means a true allergy based on your history and symptoms.
Do I need to stop my allergy medicines before this test?
Usually not, because this is a blood test. However, tell your doctor about all medicines, including antihistamines, so they can advise you.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1 to 3 business days, though this can vary by lab.
Can this test tell me which insect stung me?
It can show which insect venoms you have antibodies to, but it cannot confirm which specific insect caused a past sting.