Health Promotion Group Gibraltar

STINGS, BITES AND THEIR TREATMENTS

Gibraltar is rich in entomological species and such diversity includes those with stings and fangs that can harm man and other species. The geographical location of Gibraltar means that there is a greater risk of stings / bites due to the mix of European and African faunal elements. The groups of animals involved are numerous, but thankfully only a few are of public concern. Normally there are more incidents of stings and bites in the spring and summer months, and this is because the natural world is at its peak.

Stings

Bees and Wasps can deliver a nasty sting and one species of wasp to watch out for is the Hornet Vespa crabo, if left alone they will carry on as normal and most stings are the result of individuals who disturb the nests.
The caterpillars of the Pine Processionary moth Thaumetopoea pityocampa are covered with hairs, which are attached to a venom gland. If an individual touches one of these insects, severe irritation of the skin may occur.
The Scorpion Buthus occitanus can deliver a nasty sting that could be dangerous to infants.

Bites

The most common type of bite in Gibraltar is from the Barbary ape Macaco sylvanus and casual visitors tend to be frequent victims. Spider bites are frequent in the summer and the concerned species are the wolf spider Lycosa narbonensis and Macrothele calpetana. The only poisonous centipede that is present in Gibraltar is Scolopendra cingulata.

Marine Life

Poisoning by fish is frequent on the Mediterranean. The Weever-fish Trachinus and Scorpion-fish
Scorpena porcus are the species commonly responsible. These fish are still potentially toxic even when dead: People are often stung whilst cleaning the fish.
There are many Jellyfish in the Mediterranean and stings can cause painful skin burns with blistering. Sea urchins are painful if stood on and spines are usually left situated in the skin.

Treatments

INSECT STINGS:
whatever the species, 80% are symptomatic, with pain at the site of penetration. Multiple stings can be dangerous and immediate medical attention is advisable. Most venoms are neutralised by heat and the application of Local heat usually causes the pain to subside quickly. Antiseptics should always be applied to the sting or bite. Pain killers are usually not very effective.

ALL BITES:
Common symptoms are pain and redness around the site of penetration of the fangs. Scorpion bites cause swelling with severe pain. The treatment for bites of any origin is to apply Antiseptic on the puncture site and take Pain killers. All deep bites should be examined medically.

POISON FISH STINGS:
Pain is immediate, severe and can cause fainting, shortness of breath, nausea and rapid heartbeat. The poison is sensitive to heat and so application of Local heat relieves pain. Medical attention is advisable.

JELLYFISH STINGS:
Do not rub the painful area, as this will release more venom. To neutralise the venom already released it is best to use Alcohol or Vinegar. To remove tentacles, which have got stuck to the skin, apply moist sand.

SEA-URCHIN STINGS:
If the spines are left in the skin the puncture sites are likely to become infected. The treatment is to Remove each splinter and wash with Antiseptic.

If stings trigger a severe allergic reaction these are the symptoms:

Swollen lips and eyelids
Difficulty in breathing (Wheezing)
Becoming pale
fainting
Increased generalised itchiness
Aches/pains, feeling unwell
If more than one are present seek emergency care.