Out of around 60 species of spiders that bite humans, only the black widow and brown recluse can be fatal. Dr. Jamie Kondis, Pediatrician at St. Louis Children’s Hospital, walks through what you need to know about spider bites, including how to identify them, what steps to take if your child is bitten, and how to best avoid them. Indications of spider bites include bite or fang marks, redness and swelling and, if it’s a poisonous spider bite, the affected area will quickly show a blue discoloration that spreads to surrounding tissues. If you believe your child has been bitten by a poisonous spider, apply ice or a cold washcloth to the site to slow the spread of the poison and visit the hospital emergency room immediately.
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