Scorpion stings up in Valley; how to stay protected

PHOENIX - Scorpion stings are up across the Valley, and experts say there are some simple facts and tips you should know to keep you and your family protected.

Michael Levine, a toxicologist with Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center, tells ABC15 in most cases a scorpion sting is not life threatening.

It generally causes slight pain and mild discomfort. Only in some minor cases will someone need to seek extra medical care.

Symptoms that would warrant a trip to the doctor would include abnormal eye movements, uncontrollable flailing of the arms and legs, and vomiting.

Medications used to treat symptoms from a sting include muscle relaxers, pain killers or a breathing tube if the patient is having trouble breathing.

The populations most at risk are young children and the elderly.

Derek Ozment, lead Park Ranger at the Phoenix Zoo, says there are 45 scorpion species in Arizona.

The most common is the Giant Desert Hairy Scorpion which is about four to five inches long. He likens their sting to that of a bee sting.

Another common species is the Bark Scorpion, which are about two to two and a half inches long and pack a powerful punch.

He said Bark Scorpions are often mistaken for Giant Desert Hairy Scorpion “babies”.

Ozment believes that is why some people believe young scorpions are more dangerous or venomous than adult ones.

He said that is probably the number one misconception.

He said Bark Scorpions get their name because they are the only scorpion species that can climb.

According to Ozment, scorpions begin to surface when the weather warms up and they generally come out at night.

To avoid them, Ozment recommends keeping a clean house, keeping stacks of wood away from the house and making sure your palm trees are trimmed.

He added not to put your hands where you can’t see because scorpions can cling to surfaces upside down.

If you are stung, Ozment said to wash the area with soap and water. You can also add a cold compress and take an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory such as ibuprofen.

Levine said to keep Bark Scorpions away from infants, you may consider moving the crib away from a wall and placing the legs in glass jars.

Levine said Bark Scorpions don’t have much traction on glass, so when they climb they will fall into the glass jar and not up into your baby’s crib.

For more information or questions if you or someone you know has been stung, call Banner Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222