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Most spiders are not considered to be harmful to humans, despite the fact that all spiders are venomous. However, Australia is home to quite a few spiders that can cause real harm if you are bitten. See below for tips on what to do if you are bitten.
Black House Spider
WATCH AND ACT
A bite from a black house spider can cause swelling and pain in the bite area. On rare occasions, a bite may also cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, muscular pain, sweating, dizziness and headache. Also, skin lesions, necrotising and arachnidism have been recorded after bites, but only in a few cases. An ice pack may relieve local pain. However, if symptoms persist, you need to seek medical attention.
Funnel-web Spider
GET MEDICAL ATTENTION STRAIGHT AWAY IF BITTEN
Apply a bandage the bite site and adjacent limb really tight to restrict movement. For example, if you are bitten on the finger, you should treat this by bandaging the entire arm. Apply a splint to further restrict movement.
Golden Orb or Orb Weaver Spider
WATCH AND ACT
Typically doesn’t cause harm to humans. A bite can cause mild local pain, numbness and swelling, including nausea and dizziness. If symptoms persist, you need to seek medical attention.
Mouse Spider
GET MEDICAL ATTENTION STRAIGHT AWAY IF BITTEN
No human deaths have been recorded, however like a bite from a funnel-web, you need to apply a bandage really tightly to the bite site and the adjacent limb. If you get a bite on the finger, this should be treated by bandaging your entire arm, for example. Apply a splint to restrict any further movement.
Redback Spider
GET MEDICAL ATTENTION STRAIGHT AWAY IF BITTEN
Put an ice pack on the bite site to reduce pain. Keep the victim calm and as still as possible.
White-tailed Spider
WATCH AND ACT
A white-tailed spider bite may cause burning pain, swelling and itchiness. Blistering is also a possibility. Seek medical attention immediately if pain and swelling persist.