A Victorian man died yesterday after being stung by several bees. While bee sting deaths are rare (bees claim around two Australian lives each year), bees cause more hospitalisations than any venomous creature.

We have snakes, spiders, jellyfish - but of all our venomous creatures, it is the humble bee (and its other winged insect pals) that poses the biggest public health threat in Australia, according to new research.

Those buzzing insects in your backyard are more than a nuisance at your barbecue. In numbers, they're a formidable threat. And if you're one of the many people allergic to bees, hornets and wasps, even a few can be dangerous. Here's how you can avoid getting swarmed, and what to do if you get stung.