Spring is slowly but surely creeping towards us and here’s what you need to know about common bites and stings this spring season, courtesy of ER24.
South Africa is home to a rich variety of insects and arachnids and many are found in our homes and gardens. Bees, wasps, scorpions, hornets and spiders can pose a risk, particularly to young children.
• Scorpions
Most scorpions are harmless but, a few species can cause life-threatening systemic envenoming (poisoning in the body).
If you are bitten by a scorpion it helps to carefully catch the scorpion and bring it along to the hospital so that doctors know exactly how to treat the bite or sting.
One useful rule of thumb is that scorpions with thick tails and slender pincers are more venomous than those with slender tails and large pincers, as scorpions that use big, strong pincers to catch their prey, seldom have a very venomous sting at the end of their tail. A second important feature is the size of the scorpion.
A scorpion smaller than 4cm in length (when uncurled) is very unlikely to cause serious envenomation. The two most dangerous scorpions are the amber-coloured Parabuthus granulatus and the black-coloured Parabuthus transvaalicus.
Most deaths are attributed to the Parabuthus granulatus. Small children are especially at risk from scorpion stings, as they can develop respiratory failure and may die. It is essential to seek urgent medical attention if a scorpion sting occurs, especially in children.
Symptoms are similar to those associated with a button spider bite although the burning pain is more severe, there is often associated pins-and-needles, sweating, agitation, and generalised muscle pain. Difficulty breathing and visual disturbance can also occur. Children most often develop marked restlessness and irritability. Antivenom to these scorpions is available at hospitals and may be administered, if required, in the Emergency Unit or High Care ward.
If you’re unsure of what to do about a bite or sting, the best option is to call the Poison Information Helpline (0861 555 777) or visit your closest emergency room or GP, especially if the patient is a small child. Home remedies are best avoided unless recommended by your doctor.
Do you perhaps have more information pertaining to this story? Email us at randfonteinherald@caxton.co.za (please remember to include your contact details in the email) or phone us on 011 693 3671.
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