Spider Bites

Australian Spider Bites: Identification, First Aid & Treatment Guide

Australia is home to over 2,000 spider species, most of which are harmless and play a crucial role in controlling insect populations. While spider bites can be alarming, only two species—the Sydney funnel-web and redback spider—pose a serious risk to humans. Understanding spider bite identification, symptoms, and first aid can help prevent unnecessary panic and ensure proper treatment.

Dangerous Spiders in Australia

1. Sydney Funnel-Web Spider (Atrax robustus)

• Highly venomous – can be life-threatening

• Symptoms:

  • Severe pain at bite site

  • Sweating, nausea, muscle twitching

  • Difficulty breathing (requires urgent antivenom)

• First Aid:

  • Pressure immobilisation bandage

  • Call 000 immediately

  • Monitor for vital signs

2. Redback Spider (Latrodectus hasseltii)

• Neurotoxic venom – painful but rarely fatal

• Symptoms:

  • Intense local pain

  • Swelling, sweating, nausea

• First Aid:

  • Apply ice pack (do NOT use pressure bandage)

  • Seek medical help (antivenom available)

Common Harmless Spiders in Australia

Spider Bite Identification: What to Look For

Unlike insect bites, spider bites often show:
✔ Two small fang marks (sometimes single puncture)
✔ Redness, swelling, pain (within hours)
✔ Blisters or ulcers (rare, e.g., white-tailed spider)
✔ Delayed symptoms (some species cause pain later)

⚠ Myth: “All spider bites cause necrosis” – False! Only some exotic species (like recluse spiders, not native to Australia) cause tissue death.

Spider Bite First Aid: Do’s & Don’ts

✅ Do:

• Wash the bite with soap & water

• Apply ice (for redback bites)

• Use pressure bandage (for funnel-web bites)

• Seek medical help if severe symptoms occur

❌ Don’t:

• Suck out venom (ineffective & dangerous)

• Cut the bite (increases infection risk)

• Apply a tourniquet (can damage tissue)

When to Seek Emergency Help

🚨 Call 000 or go to the hospital if:

• Difficulty breathing

• Severe pain or swelling

• Nausea, sweating, muscle spasms

• Known funnel-web or redback bite

Preventing Spider Bites in Australia

• Wear gloves when gardening

• Shake out shoes/clothing before wearing

• Keep beds away from walls (reduces hiding spots)

• Use insect screens on windows