The Top 9 Summer Insects to Avoid and How

The Top 9 Summer Insects to Avoid and How

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Scorpions

What they do: A cousin of the spider, scorpions have eight legs, a pair of pincers, and a slender tail that arches over their backs. Over 1750 known species of scorpions exist, but only 25 to 30 of the species have venom that can be fatal to humans. The only scorpion species found in the U.S. that can inflict lethal stings are bark scorpions.

What to do: In the case of a mild bite, the only reactions might be a small tingling or burning sensation at the site of the sting. Severe stings can cause double division, difficulty breathing, drooling, high blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, muscle spasms, paralysis, among others. Most stings don’t require medical treatment, but for children under six-years-old, harmful effects are more likely from poisonous types. If stung, keep yourself and the area affected still after washing the sting with soap and water. Put ice on the sting for 10 minutes, take the ice off for 10 minutes, and then repeat the process. 

Flickr/Chris Parker