Cover up to avoid snake and spider bites this summer

21 December 2010

As you prepare to enjoy the long, hot summer in the lead-up to Australia Day, remember you’ll be sharing the beach and bush with some other sun-loving Aussies.

Clinical toxicologist at Calvary Mater Newcastle Dr Geoff Isbister says it’s important people take precautions to avoid bites and stings this summer.

“As the weather warms, we’re spending more time outside where we are more likely to come into contact with snakes, spiders and blue bottles,” said Dr Isbister. “Not only are we spending more time outside, summer is also a time when most Australians are least likely to be wearing long shirts and pants, and covered shoes.”

Dr Isbister said there are a few simple tips people can use to avoid bites and stings this summer.

“Never approach a snake to either kill it or pick it up,” Dr Isbister said. “More than 30 percent of snake bite cases seen by hospitals across Australia occurred because the person approached a snake.

“Many bites can be avoided by people wearing covered shoes and long pants,” Dr Isbister said. “Cover up if you know you are going to be in an area, such as bushland, where you are more likely to encounter a snake or spider.”

Dr Isbister urges families to learn how to respond to snake and spider bites quickly and appropriately, and to seek medical attention if a bite occurs.

“Swift administration of first aid is crucial and can help save the life of someone who has been bitten by a snake or spider,” Dr Isbister said.

Snake and Funnel Web spider bites require the same first aid. The procedure is:

• Call ‘000’
• Place a firm bandage to the limb (arm or leg) commencing at the bite site, then wrapping down to the fingers or toes and then up the limb to the hip or shoulder
• Keep the limb still with a splint
• Bring transport to the patient
• The patient should ideally not attempt to walk or run
• Under no circumstances should the bandage be removed until the patient has reached hospital

The first aid for Red Back Spider bite is to apply an ice pack and seek medical attention.

The first aid for Blue Bottle stings is immersion in hot water (45 degrees celsius) for 20 minutes or where this is not available using a hot shower to warm the sting.

Contact: Emma Gibbs

Phone: 0428 114 767