Understanding the Danger of Australian Redback Spiders and When to Call a Professional
Australia is home to some of the most unique and, at times, dangerous wildlife in the world. Among these is the infamous Australian redback spider, a species that has earned a formidable reputation due to its venomous bite. While not all encounters with redback spiders result in dangerous outcomes, understanding their potential threat and knowing when to call a professional pest technician is crucial for maintaining a safe environment.
How Venomous Are Australian Redback Spiders?
Redback spiders (Latrodectus hasselti) are easily recognisable by the distinctive red stripe on their black bodies. They are related to the black widow spiders found in other parts of the world, and like their relatives, they possess venom that can be harmful to humans. However, they are not as lethal as many make them out to be. In fact, there has not been a redback spider caused death since 1955.
The venom of a redback spider contains neurotoxins that can cause a variety of symptoms, collectively known as “redback spider envenomation.” Common symptoms include:
Intense Pain: The bite site often becomes very painful, with the pain sometimes spreading to other parts of the body, particularly the abdomen and chest.
Sweating: Localised or generalised sweating is common, often accompanied by muscle weakness and nausea.
Muscle Weakness or Cramping: A redback spider bite can sometimes cause a sense of fatigue, or stiffness in the muscles. It may also produce cramping sensations near, but not limited to, areas around the bite mark.
Headaches: If bitten, one may experience anxiety or headaches.
Other Symptoms: Less common but more serious symptoms can include vomiting, difficulty breathing, and, in severe cases, convulsions.
While fatalities from redback spider bites are extremely rare due to the availability of antivenom, the experience is far from pleasant and can lead to significant discomfort and anxiety.
What you may experience if bitten by a redback spider
The symptoms of a redback spider bite can vary a lot from person to person, and the illness afterwards tends to progress slowly, potentially lasting for up to a week if the bite isn’t treated. However, in some cases, antivenom is not administered at all if symptoms are mild. Still, it’s always best to seek medical attention rather than determining treatment alone.
Right after being bitten, you might feel immediate pain at the bite site, which can spread and become more intense, affecting the entire limb for over a day. You may also notice swollen and tender lymph nodes nearby, unusual sweating (sometimes just in the bitten area), and goosebumps. Other common symptoms include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, headaches, joint pain that moves around, fever, restlessness, and trouble sleeping. Some people might also experience high blood pressure, a fast heartbeat, and muscle weakness or twitching due to the spider’s venom. In rare cases, serious complications like heart inflammation, muscle breakdown, and even paralysis can occur.
Who is at the most risk?
Redback spiders are most dangerous to young children, the elderly, and people with compromised immune systems or pre-existing health conditions. These groups are more vulnerable because their bodies may not handle the effects of the venom as effectively as healthy adults. Additionally, small pets can also be at risk if bitten. While healthy adults can experience severe symptoms, they are less likely to suffer life-threatening complications from a redback spider bite due to better overall resilience and the availability of antivenom. However, anyone bitten by a redback spider should seek medical attention, especially if symptoms worsen or if the bite occurs in a vulnerable individual.
Can Dogs Survive a Redback Bite?
Yes, dogs can survive a redback spider bite, but it can be more serious than when humans are bitten and requires prompt veterinary care. The venom of a redback spider affects dogs similarly to humans, causing symptoms like pain, swelling, muscle weakness, vomiting, and in severe cases, paralysis. Small dogs are particularly at risk due to their size, as the venom can spread more quickly in their bodies.
If you suspect your dog has been bitten by a redback spider, it’s crucial to seek veterinary attention immediately. The vet may administer antivenom or supportive care to manage the symptoms and help your dog recover. Early intervention is key to increasing the chances of survival.
What To Do If Bitten By Redback Spider
First and foremost, stay calm—while around 10,000 people are bitten by redback spiders each year, deaths are incredibly rare, with the last reported redback-related death occurring over 50 years ago.
To manage the pain and reduce swelling, apply ice or a cold pack to the bite area. It’s important to seek medical assistance at this point. Although hospitalisation isn’t always necessary, getting professional help is a wise precaution.
Avoid using anything that constricts the area, like pressure or a tight bandage, as this can worsen the pain by restricting blood flow. Redback venom spreads slowly, so applying pressure can be counterproductive.
If you can, safely capture the spider responsible for the bite for identification purposes in case antivenom is required. The spider doesn’t need to be alive, but if it has been squished beyond recognition, it may make things harder for experts. Be cautious not to get bitten again, as multiple redback bites can increase the risk of serious complications.
Why You Should Call a Professional Pest Technician
Spotting a redback spider or two around your home might not seem like a cause for alarm, but it’s important to consider a few key points:
They Are Often Not Alone: Redback spiders are prolific breeders. If you’ve seen one, there’s a good chance there are more hiding in crevices, under outdoor furniture, or in sheds and garages. A single female can produce hundreds of eggs, leading to a rapid increase in their numbers if left unchecked.
Difficult to Eradicate: Redback spiders are resilient and can be difficult to eliminate without proper techniques and products. DIY pest control methods often fall short, leading to a persistent problem that can be challenging to manage.
Hidden Dangers: Redback spiders tend to hide in dark, secluded areas, making them difficult to spot. This increases the risk of accidental encounters, particularly for children, pets, or anyone working in outdoor areas.
Expertise Matters: Professional pest technicians have the experience and knowledge to identify all potential hiding spots and effectively treat the area to ensure complete eradication. They also use products that are safe for your family and pets while being highly effective against these spiders.
Peace of Mind: Engaging a professional provides peace of mind, knowing that your home or workplace is safe from these venomous pests. It also reduces the risk of bites, which, even with antivenom, can be a traumatic experience.
Redback spiders are a serious pest in Australia, and while their venom is rarely fatal, the symptoms of a bite can be severe and distressing. Spotting even a few around your home is a sign that it’s time to call in the experts. A professional pest technician from Cure All Pest Control can thoroughly assess the situation, effectively eliminate the threat, and provide ongoing protection to keep your environment safe from these dangerous arachnids.
Don’t wait until it’s too late—ensure the safety of your home or business by contacting us at Cure All Pest Control as soon as you notice any signs of redback spiders. Your peace of mind is just a call away.
