Can a centipede bite poison a person?
Disease description:
My son went to the countryside today with a few good friends. Unexpectedly, he was bitten by a centipede. When he came back, there was only slight swelling and no discomfort. I'd like to ask: does a centipede bite always cause poisoning?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhang Xiuhong
Centipede bites can potentially cause poisoning.
When a centipede bites using the sharp maxillipeds on its head, it injects venom containing toxic components such as histamine-like substances and hemolytic proteins into the human body, triggering a toxic reaction. Symptoms vary in severity; most cases present localized redness, swelling, pain, and itching, while in rare severe cases systemic reactions may occur, including headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and even anaphylactic shock, which is particularly dangerous in children. The severity of poisoning is closely related to the size of the centipede and the amount of venom injected.
Immediately after a centipede bite, prompt measures should be taken, such as washing the wound with an alkaline solution, and avoiding blind squeezing to prevent further spread of the venom. If symptoms are severe or persist, medical attention should be sought promptly.
