True stories for springtime: Avoiding poisons and outdoor hazards
In the woods or in the garden, nature can surprise the unprepared.
Find out moreBites and stings
Are tarantulas dangerous?
Tarantulas are venomous, but the effects of the venom of tarantulas indigenous to North America are typically mild in humans and only cause pain at the bite site. Contact with tarantula hairs can cause redness, itching, and swelling. Avoid getting tarantula hairs in the eye. If you are bitten, wash the bite with soap and water, and then contact your poison center.
Find out more
Everything you need to know about snakebites
The beginning of warmer weather is the beginning of snakebite season. Many of these bites occur around people's homes, but bites can occur anywhere. While there are several species of venomous snakes in the United States, the majority of domestic snakes are not venomous. Be sure to call your poison center or seek medical attention if someone is bitten.
Find out more
Are scorpions venomous?
Most scorpions in the US are not very dangerous, but painful stings are common. However, serious effects can occur following stings from the bark scorpion. Most stings can be initially managed at home with guidance from a poison center or webPOISONCONTROL, but if prolonged pain or body-wide symptoms occur, emergency medical treatment should be sought.
Find out more
Rattlesnake bites: What you need to know
Rattlesnakes are a type of venomous pit viper found in many areas of the US. The most common symptoms of a rattlesnake bite are pain and swelling of the affected area, but more severe symptoms, such as bleeding and muscle weakness, can occur. Many rattlesnake bites require hospitalization and treatment with antivenom.
Find out more
Insect and spider bites: When to worry
Insect and spider bites can cause pain, redness, swelling, and itching. Black widow spiders cause muscle cramps, while brown recluse spiders cause necrotic lesions. Allergic reactions include hives, difficulty breathing and sometimes death. Infection and disease transmission can occur.
Find out more
How venomous are cottonmouth snakes?
Cottonmouth snakes are a type of venomous pit viper found in the South East US. They are semiaquatic and are found near water, which is why they are also referred to as water moccasins. Cottonmouths prefer to leave you alone, but occasionally do bite. The most common symptoms of a cottonmouth bite are pain and swelling of the affected area, which may need treatment with antivenom.
Find out more
Are coral snakes poisonous?
Coral snakes usually have a pattern of red, black, and yellow (or white) colored rings that span their bodies. Although uncommon, coral snake bites can potentially lead to severe neurotoxicity, including complete respiratory failure, if left untreated. All suspected envenomations should be evaluated and monitored in a hospital for at least 24 hours due to the delayed onset of symptoms.
Find out more
Are copperhead snakes venomous?
Copperheads are venomous snakes. Their bites can cause local pain, swelling, redness, bruising, and blistering, as well as systemic symptoms like low blood pressure and bleeding. In some cases, no symptoms are present. Serious effects are rare. If a bite occurs, stay calm, immobilize the bite area, and seek help from experts.
Find out more
Centipede stings: How harmful are they?
Centipedes can inflict painful stings, but most are small and rarely sting humans. They live in damp places and hunt for prey at night. Centipedes are considered beneficial because they help control household pests such as cockroaches, silverfish, and ants.
Find out more