Dozens of students and staff were stung by bees while getting off buses outside a Massachusetts elementary school on Wednesday.
Ashland Superintendent of Schools Jim Adams said the incident occurred on the first day of classes at David Mindess Elementary School when an underground nest near the end of the bus loop was disturbed around 7:50 a.m.
“Unfortunately, several students and staff members were stung, and many bees traveled into the school building,” Adams wrote in a letter to the school community in Ashland, which is located about 25 miles west of Boston.
Paramedics from the Ashland Fire Department and school nurses treated the roughly 40 people who were stung. Everyone was tended to at the scene and families were called.
“Thankfully, there were no severe reactions, and all students are doing well,” Adams said.
Professionals found the hive’s queen and relocated her, prompting the rest of the colony to follow.
Adams said the nest was not near the building or the playground, but recess would be held indoors on Wednesday as a precaution.
“This was undoubtedly a difficult way to start our first day,” Adams said. “Still, thankfully, due to the assistance from our community partners, we have rectified the issue and are moving forward to what will undoubtedly be a positive year.”
“I want to commend our firefighters and paramedics for their rapid and professional response to ensure the safety of all students,” fire chief Keith Robie said. “We also appreciate the cooperation of the Mindess School staff in helping to manage the situation calmly and effectively.”
The department advised people with allergies to always carry an epinephrine injector.
