Africanized bees are attacking in Panama: over 5,639 cases have been reported so far this year.

Among the recommendations from the fire department are to avoid approaching swarms of Africanized bees, not attempting to remove structures containing them, and avoiding loud noises. So far this year, the Panamanian Fire Department has responded to a total of 5,639 emergencies related to Africanized bees nationwide, a figure that reflects a significant increase in these types of incidents. Originating from sub-Saharan Africa and crossbred with European bees during experiments in Brazil, Africanized bees were accidentally introduced to the American continent in 1956. Since then, they have spread throughout the hemisphere, causing episodes of mass attacks on both humans and animals. Unlike European bees, which are more common in beekeeping, Africanized bees are known for their highly defensive behavior. A study published by the Smithsonian Institution, replicated by Infobae, states that these insects have "killed approximately 1,000 people" since their arrival in the Americas, with victims typically receiving "ten times more stings than in attacks by the European strain." Africanized bees have been documented pursuing victims for over a kilometer. (Getty) Just this past weekend, firefighters responded to a call in the Chepo district, east of Panama City, where a person was found dead at a farm. Firefighters, properly equipped with beekeeping equipment, confirmed the presence of numerous bees around the scene, where a man of approximately 55 years old was found. Similarly, it was reported that recently in the Ngäbe Buglé region, in the province of Chiriquí, a person also died as a result of stings from Africanized bees. In the Burunga area, in the province of Panama Oeste, another person was affected, and five dogs died after another attack by these insects. Julio Real, commander and first chief of the Panama East-Darién Regional Zone, explained that during this summer season, there has been a considerable increase in responses to bee swarms, and he reiterated the call to the public to remain cautious and report any potentially dangerous situations. From January to date, firefighters have also responded to 1,080 traffic accidents in Panama. Due to this situation, the fire department maintains national operations for response and assistance, and urges citizens to follow the following recommendations: do not approach swarms, do not attempt to remove structures containing bees, avoid loud noises and sudden movements, do not use perfumes or strong odors, seek shelter in enclosed spaces, protect your face and head, and immediately report any emergency to the number 103. One of the most concerning aspects for experts regarding these insects is their ability to pursue perceived threats over long distances. While European bees may follow a person for about 400 meters, Africanized bees have been documented pursuing victims for over a kilometer, increasing the risk of fatal encounters. Furthermore, the Panamanian Fire Department revealed that from January to date, they have responded to 1,080 traffic accidents, largely due to speeding, distractions while driving, using a cell phone while driving, disregard for traffic signals, and driving under the influence of alcohol. These emergencies continue to result in injuries, property damage, and high-risk situations that require the rapid intervention of emergency services. Since their arrival in the Americas, these insects have killed approximately 1,000 people, according to the Smithsonian Institution. (Getty) Fire department officials, in a communication, reiterated the call to reinforce preventive measures and maintain responsible behavior on the roads to avoid tragedies that affect entire families. They emphasized the importance of respecting speed limits, always wearing a seatbelt, not using a cell phone while driving, regularly checking the condition of the car, maintaining a safe distance between vehicles, and not driving under the influence of alcohol.