HOW TO TREAT BUGS DURING THE FESTIVE SEASON
Prevention is better than cure when it comes to bites and stings
Bites and stings seem to be unavoidable during South Africa’s hot summer months. There are definite ways on how to treat bugs during the festive season, but wherever possible, it is best to avoid these wherever you can. The people who need the most protection from stings and bites are the elderly and young children as well as those that suffer from cardiovascular disease and those suffering from allergies. But bear in mind that most of the things that bite and sting do so in defence, so best to avoid these at all costs especially if you know where they are hiding. The most dangerous and perhaps the most unlikely you might encounter falls into two groups – these are neurotoxic and cytotoxic. The most common and notorious of the neurotoxic creatures is the Black Widow Spider. The poison is enough to kill a small child, so best to teach your children to respect all creatures and all times and to leave well alone. It is only the female of the species that bites hence the name Black Widow. Other creatures that are neurotoxic are the brown widow, the Baboon Spider and Scorpions. Neurotoxic These attack the central nervous system and when bitten the victim will experience a burning sensation at the site of the bite, and expect these symptoms to follow suit:- Cramping and muscular pain in the chest abdomen, back and abdomen as well as the thighs
- Swelling of the lymph glands
- The victim will soon start to perspire and have a rapid pulse rate
- Weakness in the legs and elevated blood pressure will also be experienced.
- Vomiting, nausea and salivation will also take place.
HOW TO PREVENT CREEPY CRAWLIES IN SUMMER
TACKLE PEST PROBLEMS THIS SUMMER Do something about the creepy crawlies this summer
Some creepy crawlies are unavoidable, especially during the hot summer months, but taking the necessary precautions can go a long way to avoiding bites and stings.
Cytotoxic creatures are more common than bites from neurotoxic creatures.
Two cytotoxic spiders to keep a look out for are the Sac Spider and the Violin Spider. The Sac Spider is commonly found in the home and makes a little silky pocket in the fold of bed frills and curtains.
The Violin Spider is often found in piles of wood, behind pictures, in garages, in cellars and under rocks, and even when clothes are left lying on the floor. They have a habit of finding a home in blankets and duvets that have been stored away.
Both are nocturnal creatures and bite their victims when they are fast asleep, rolling over onto them. Be alert and avoid them if you can as they are usually quite shy.
The symptoms from Cytotoxic creatures usually include:
- Swelling and pain where the bite took place
- Perspiring and stiff muscles as well as a fever
- Blistering at the site of the bite
- Lesion at the site of the bite – this is from the Sac Spider
- A nasty wound as a result of breaking down of the body tissue
Seeking medical attention is important especially if the patient shows any of the above symptoms.
Other creatures to avoid during the summer months are ticks, mosquitoes, wasps and bees.
The best method and tips on how to prevent creepy crawlies in summer – apply common sense and ensure you don’t leave clothes lying around on the floor; wash your curtains regularly and clean out your cupboards to avoid infestations. If you are concerned about creepy crawlies it is best to call on the experts for professional advice.