Tengrinews.kz - Ministry of Healthcare has reported on the situation regarding Kazakhstanis affected by black widow spider bites. This year, this type of venomous spider has shown unprecedented activity in several regions of the country.
As of September 11, 2024, there have been 342 registered cases of black widow bites across the republic. Such incidents have been documented in Aktobe, Almaty, Atyrau, East Kazakhstan, Jambyl, Turkestan, Mangystau regions, Zhetysu region, and Shymkent. In response to an official inquiry from Tengrinews.kz, the ministry stated that due to the increase in citizen complaints, medical organizations in the regions, as well as in Almaty, Astana, and Shymkent, are prepared to provide assistance (symptomatic treatment) for patients reporting bites. The ministry confirmed that there are 110 doses of antivenom available for black widow bites across the country.
Additionally, the Ministry of Health mentioned preventive pest control measures being implemented in Kazakhstan to reduce the population of these spiders, along with public awareness efforts through the media.
What to do if bitten by a black widow spider?
We consulted with the Ministry of Emergency Situations for recommendations in case of a potential encounter with a black widow.
"If bitten by a venomous spider, an effective first aid method in the field is to cauterize the bite area with the head of a lit match or another hot object, but this should be done no later than 2-3 minutes after the bite. Additionally, the bitten person should be kept calm and well-hydrated," the rescuers advised.
To minimize the risk of being bitten, it is recommended to:
Wear closed clothing and boots with high tops.
Tuck pants into socks.
Use a head covering, preferably one that covers the neck.
If you feel a spider crawling on your body, brush it off with a cloth or other available items, but do not crush it.
Where you are likely to encounter a black widow
According to the Ministry of Emergency Situations, the spider is most commonly found in steppes, on slopes of ravines, at garbage dumps, and in abandoned or overgrown garden plots. Its favorite places include piles of trash and firewood. The spider prefers to settle close to the ground, where it is cool and damp. However, the wind can carry a black widow on its web to other locations.
When are black widows active
Their seasonal activity runs from mid-May to September, with increased activity at night.
Previously, reports indicated a black widow invasion in several regions of the country. For instance, in August, there were discussions about the possibility of declaring a state of emergency in Pavlodar region due to this issue.
