73-Year-Old Man Survives 200 Bee Stings in Minas Gerais, Brazil

A 73-year-old man in Andradas, Minas Gerais, survived more than 200 bee stings after being attacked by a swarm on September 18, 2026, according to reports from Corpo de Bombeiros Militar de Minas Gerais (CBMMG). The victim was walking near a riverbed to collect water when the swarm attacked him, leaving him in critical condition with signs of anaphylactic shock before he was rescued and hospitalized at Santa Casa de Andradas.

The incident occurred at approximately 9:20 a.m. along Avenida João Domiciano da Costa in the Vila Santa Rita neighborhood, according to the CBMMG. While walking in a nearby wooded area to fetch water from a river, the 73-year-old man was suddenly surprised by the aggressive insects. Fleeing the swarm, he ran toward the main avenue to seek help from people nearby.

Workers from a local company attempted to drive the bees away using water jets while the victim sought refuge. A passing driver also stopped and allowed the man to climb onto the bed of a pickup truck for safety. Despite these rescue efforts, the bees continued stinging him, prompting bystanders to isolate the area for public safety until emergency responders arrived.

Emergency Rescue and Hospitalization

Crews from the CBMMG advanced post arrived with an ambulance and a fire truck to handle the hazardous situation. Firefighters deployed beekeeping protective suits and used a pressurized water spray to push back the persistent swarm, as reported by O Tempo. Rescuers extracted the man from the truck bed and transferred him into the ambulance while he exhibited early signs of anaphylactic shock. Due to the severity of his condition, the transport vehicle sped to the Santa Casa de Andradas hospital under emergency lights and sirens, according to CBMMG logs. Even during the transit, several bees remained trapped inside the ambulance while medical staff continued providing care. After the patient was admitted to the hospital, military firefighters returned to the scene to conduct a technical sweep.

Official Safety Warnings

Following the attack, the Corpo de Bombeiros Militar de Minas Gerais issued public safety recommendations regarding envenomation risks. Authorities advised citizens never to approach or attempt to remove insect swarms without proper personal protective equipment and professional training.

In the event of an unexpected encounter with aggressive bees, the agency recommends maintaining distance, avoiding sudden movements, and seeking immediate shelter indoors. Anyone facing an active emergency should contact the fire department directly by dialing 193.