What to do if you or someone is bitten

Sometimes it's hard to know if a bite or sting is dangerous and what to do. We have information to help you.

  • Insect bites and stings

    Learn how to treat common insect bites and stings and when to get medical help.

  • Tick bites

    Learn how to treat tick bites and when to get medical help.

  • Spider bites

    Learn how to treat bites from spiders and when to get medical help.

  • Snake bites

    Bites from some Australian land or sea snakes can be fatal. For all snake bites, call Triple Zero (000) and then read about how to apply first aid.

  • Sea creature bites and stings

    Learn how to treat bites and stings from poisonous sea creatures like the blue-ringed octopus, stonefish and cone shells. Find out when to get medical help.

  • Cane toad toxin

    Learn how to treat poisoning from cane toads and when to get medical help.

  • Bat bites and scratches

    Learn how to treat bites and scratches from bats and when to get medical help.

Anaphylaxis

In some cases, someone who has been bitten might have a severe allergic reaction. If they collapse or have trouble breathing, call Triple Zero (000) straight away.

Last updated: July 2023