How Many Spiders Can Kill You?
WouterIt’s no secret that spiders are predators. That’s why they often prey on unwanted insects. They do so by using their fangs to inject poison into their victims. While most spiders are harmless, there are a few that produce toxic venom that can be deadly.
In the United States, 7 people die from spider bites annually. The majority of deaths occur in small children. These attacks are rare. However, the venom of a few spiders can cause severe allergic reactions, or even fatalities.
To combat the threat posed by spiders, doctors have developed effective antivenoms. Antivenin is a peptide that is designed to neutralize the venom that is released when a spider bites. Usually, local treatment of the skin is all that is required. If a more serious reaction occurs, hospitalization may be needed.
The two most common venomous spiders in the United States are the brown recluse and the black widow. These two species are most common in southern and western states.
The venom of the black widow is alpha-latrotoxin. This substance causes severe pain and cramping, as well as sweating. Alpha-latrotoxin is the most toxic of the four main types of venom.
Another venomous spider in the United States is the six-eyed sand spider. Six-eyed sand spiders are closely related to the deadly recluse spiders. Their venom is very toxic, and can cause painful, life-threatening wounds.
In Australia, the funnel web spider is one of the most dangerous spiders to humans. It can kill a human in less than 24 hours.
