Poisons Information Centre

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General first aid for bites and stings

For bites or stings from these creatures refer to pressure immobilisation  first aid.

• all species of Australian snakes, including sea snakes
• funnel web spiders
• blue ringed octopus
• cone shell stings

For all other bites and stings:

• Wash with soap and water and apply an antiseptic if available
• Ensure that the patient's tetanus vaccination is up to date
• Apply an ice-pack to reduce local pain and swelling
• Pain relief may be required eg. paracetamol or an antihistamine (to reduce swelling, redness and itch)
• The patient should seek medical advice if they develop any other symptoms or signs of infection.

Anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can occur in sensitive individuals from exposure to any chemicals foreign to the body, including bites and stings, plants, or medications. Parts of the body, for example the face or throat, swell up so much that the patient can't breathe. In severe cases the patient may go into shock within a few minutes and the heart can stop. For any patient who shows signs of anaphylaxis, call 000 for an ambulance, and have the patient taken immediately to the emergency department of the nearest hospital.