Hymenoptera consist of different families, including the families Apidae and Vespidae. Three species which are very important in the context of venom allergies are Vespula vulgaris (the common wasp), Vespula germanica (german wasp) and Apis mellifera (honey bee). Stings of Hymenoptera occur very frequently. 0.3-7.5% of the population worldwide suffers from venom allergy. When humans with a venom allergy get stung they experience severe local reactions and systemic symptoms. Atopic humans might get into anaphylactic shock after a sting. In central Europe, 30-40% of the human with a venom allergy have an allergy for both bee and wasp venoms.