What are the dangers of spider bites in Singapore?

Doctor's Answer

Photo of Dr Jipson Quah
Dr Jipson Quah

General Practitioner

Common spider species in Singapore include Daddy Long-Legs, Wolf Spider and Yellow Sac Spider. Rarer spiders such as the Black Widow, Brown Recluse Spider, Garden Spider and Domestic Huntsmen Spider may also be encountered.

The most famous of the poisonous spiders in Singapore is the Black Widow Spider whose venom contains powerful neurotoxins. Signs and symptoms of a black widow spider bite may include pain, cramping and sweating. Despite its notoriety, most people who experience black widow spider bites suffer little serious damage, and rarely death.

A Brown recluse spider bite can cause intense pain, fever, chills and body aches. A Yellow Sac spider bite is sharp and painful and will cause erythema and swelling. A weal or raised bump may form, with accompanying pain or numbness at the site of the bite. Sweating and nausea may also be experienced.

Please seek medical attention promptly, if you are unsure of any insect bite/sting.

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