Family in Migori mourns after boy attacked and killed by bees

A family in Nyangubo village in Suna West, Migori County is mourning the death of their one-year-old son who was attacked by bees.

The boy was in the company of his two siblings when they were attacked by bees at their home on Monday.

According to the child’s mother Vera Awuor who was not at home at the time of the incident, her son succumbed to bee stings on Tuesday morning while being taken to a local health centre.

“His body started swelling before he later developed breathing difficulties early today morning. He later died even before we could take him to hospital,” Ms Awuor said amid tears.

SIBLINGS IN HOSPITAL

She said her two surviving children, who were taken to the Migori County Referral Hospital, were still writhing in pain from the swellings that developed all over their bodies.

The incident left residents reeling in shock and grief.

"It's a very unfortunate incident. People who keep bees are supposed to be careful and should consider where they place their hives," one of the residents said.

FALLEN BEEHIVE

Confirming the incident, Assistant Chief Charles Ouma said the bees were from a beehive that had fallen down at a farm near the home.

"The bees came from a fallen bee hive in one of the farms. The children were in a nearby farm when they were attacked by the dangerous insects," said Mr Ouma.

He urged bee farmers to ensure they hang their hives far from people’s homes to avoid such incidents.

"Such calamities can be avoided if bee farmers keep their hives far from homes as it should be. We urge farmers to be mindful of others," added the chief.

The boy’s body was taken to the Migori County Referral Hospital mortuary.