Australia is a country known for its variety of flora and fauna. Despite its beaming display of life, there are dangers that you must be prepared for. After all, animals will always succumb to their nature and the best thing we can do is to be knowledgeable on how to deal with dangers we may encounter. This is your quick guide to dealing with bites and stings
Animal Stings
Animal stings puncture your skin and may leave either venom, feces, or saliva. Depending on the insect that stung you, they may also leave behind a stinger. Generally, a sting causes burns, swelling, redness, or pain. However, a non-fatal sting clears up within 48 hours.
Here are some measures you can take in dealing with stings depending on the animal.
Bee Sting
Instead of pulling the stinger directly, try to remove it by scraping or sliding your fingernail over the affected area. Then, wash the area and if you’re experiencing swelling, put ice over it.
For individuals who are allergic to bee stings, an injection of adrenaline must be administered immediately. Immobilise the person, apply pressure to the affected area and call emergency services immediately.
European Wasp Sting
Dealing with a European wasp sting is similar to a bee sting. You must clean the affected area with mild soap and water. For visible redness and swelling, you can use an icepack to relieve it. Watch out for signs of allergic reactions or anaphylaxis as these are life-threatening.
Animal Bites
Animal bites, like stings, cause pain, swelling, redness, or irritation. However, there are instances where the effects are worse than stings.
Here’s a quick overview of how you can take precautionary measures against animal bites.
Snakebite
It doesn’t matter whether the snake is venomous or not. If you or your family member has been bitten by a snake, contact emergency services immediately. Avoid washing the skin as traces of venom is utilized by medical personnel to identify the snake. You can also utilize a pressure immobilization bandage and splint the limb of the affected area.
Funnel Web Spider Bite
If you’ve been bitten by a funnel-web spider, always seek immediate medical help. Apply a bandage to the affected area or use a pressure immobilisation bandage. Antivenom must be administered immediately, so time is of the essence.
Tick Bite
Avoid using methylated alcohol, spirits, or any ointments or creams on the affected area. Application of any of the mentioned liquids might trigger the tick to inject more poison (especially if the tick hasn’t been removed yet).
Taking the appropriate actions promptly could be the difference between painful stings, and worse case serious harm. We hope our Quick Guide to Dealing with Bites and Stings has been useful! Make your home a comfortable and safe living space by calling professionals to assess your property and take appropriate measures against unwanted pests. Make it happen when you get in touch with Picton Pest Control‘s experts today!
