We are well into the summer months, and we have been fortunate to experience good rains of late. The bush is looking great, lush, green and alive with a myriad of life. Much to the trepidation of the many, the wet and warm weather brings with it an increase in scorpion activity.
South Africa is home to around 108 species of scorpions. All scorpions are venomous but fortunately for us the vast majority are not dangerous to people or pets. As a rule of thumb scorpions with thick fat tails and small pincers are more venomous than those with thin tails and large pincers.
Hoedspruit is home to a common and highly venomous species the Transvaal thick-tail scorpion (Parabuthus transvaalicus), a species easily recognizable by its large size, dark colouration, thick robust tail and small pincers. Their venom is a potent neurotoxin which affects the central nervous systems.
A sting is characterized by immediate local burning pain, which spreads and is often very severe. Systemic symptoms may develop within four hours of the sting. ‘Pins and needles’, hypersensitivity of the skin, difficulty swallowing, difficulty speaking, hyper salivation, increased heart rate, high blood pressure, fever, restlessness, involuntary muscle movements, and respiratory distress are all common systemic symptoms.
Fatality have been recorded, children and the elderly are at greater risk. A sting from this species should be regarded as a medical emergency and professional medical assistance sought without delay. The South African Vaccine Producers (SAVP) manufactures an antivenom for the treatment of serious cases.
The immediate response and ultimately the severity and outcome of an envenomation event, is determined and influenced by a number of factors. But the most important initial consideration is to determine which species was responsible for the sting. If at all possible take a photo of the offending scorpion for identification purposes. Although the majority of scorpion stings will require little or no medical intervention, if you do not know what species has stung you it is always advisable to seek medical attention.
Sting prevention
For the most part scorpion stings are avoidable by paying attention to your surroundings and taking care as to where you place your hands and feet. By taking some basic precautionary measures it is possible to greatly reduce your risk of being stung. Here are some precautions:
- Scorpions are nocturnal so take particular care at night. Always use a torch when walking around at night and wear closed shoes.
- Remember to shake out any items of clothing, towels, bags or any other kind of materials that may have been left lying on the ground.
- Shake out shoes before putting them on, particularly if they have been left outside for any length of time.
- Always be conscious of where you are placing your hands. Whether it is grabbing a piece of wood off the wood pile for your Friday afternoon braai, or moving those storage boxes in the garage, wearing gloves when performing these kinds of tasks will offer an additional layer of protection.
- Keep doors and screen doors closed particularly at night to prevent scorpions from entering your home. There are often gaps under doors and it is beneficial to fit aluminum door seals (draft stoppers) with the rubber strip to prevent scorpions and snakes from entering under the door.
- We live in an area where many homes and lodges have outdoor entertainment areas. It is advisable to always thoroughly check patio furniture before use.
For more information on scorpions, snakes, spiders and other venomous animals, awareness training and talks, as well as a professional 24hrs problem snake rescue service, contact the author at Wildlife Safety Solutions: 073 934 6156; info@wildlifesafetysolutions.co.za; www.wildlifesafetysolutions.co.za, FB Wildlife Safety Solutions, Instagram wildlife_safety_solutions
