I keep bees. I have early onset arthritus. Mine is osteo arthritis where the joints are just worn out. So the stinging can be helpful for some types of arthritus.
Bees dont like anything that smells, ie deodorant, petrol,sweat etc. They also dont like darker colours and are not partial to some fabric textures like wool or felt hats (not many people wear felt hats these days). They are also not fond of dark and shiney things -like your eyes- hence the bee veil. Bees vision is higher in the colour spectrum so they see more UV and less infa red (thats why most red flowers are pollinated by birds. I dont wnow what colour you were wearing? They are also attracted to movement.
When a female worker stings you, her sting is barbed and it tends to get stuck in clothing and skin etc. It releases an ALARM pheromone which will attract other bees to attack in the area of the sting. If you smoke- Light one up! Blow the smoke around the sting as it will interupt the alarm pheromone.
Bees can be more aggressive in times of food shortage. Or you may have stopped in a bee line (line between hive and food source). Generally if it is warm and there is nectar or pollen available they shouldnt bother you.
you may have been "stung" on your backpack without ever knowing...attracting other bees. to sting ... etc.
these are generalisations
Chub
