Breadcrumb
  1. Home
  2. FAQs
  3. Animals, Bites, and Stings

Animals, Bites, and Stings

  • Be careful around bees, wasps, hornets, and yellow jackets. Some people are allergic to these insect stings. To these people, a sting may cause serious problems and even death. If you have any of the following signs, go to a hospital immediately:

    • Hives
    • Dizziness
    • Breathing trouble
    • Swelling around the eyes and mouth

    Remember that after a sting, the site will show redness and swelling. It may also be itchy and painful. If you are unsure if you have been stung, call Poison Help (1-800-222-1222), which connects you to your local poison center.

  • If you or someone you know are bitten by a snake, right away call Poison Help (1-800-222-1222), which connects you to your local poison center. The experts at your poison center will help you determine if the snake is venomous. They will tell you what signs and symptoms to watch for. If the snake turns out not to be venomous, you will need to wash the wound, and possibly receive a tetanus booster shot.

  • The majority of spider and tick bites do not cause harm. But some spiders can cause harm. The most common of these are the female black widow and the brown recluse spiders. A bite from one of these spiders can cause serious problems in a child, an older adult, or a person in poor health. If you or someone you know has been bitten by a spider, call Poison Help (1-800-222-1222), which connects you to your local poison center, to find out more information.