The centipedes are large parasites that can measure several tens of centimeters. Their bites, although not very dangerous in France, can be very painful and cause a significant inflammatory reaction. It is therefore important to know the first simple steps to take in the event of bites, to reduce the risk of infection or runaway of the immune system.

The centipede, also called centipede, is a large chilopoda whose body is made up of about twenty rings each carrying a pair of legs. The largest species, found in South America, can reach 40 centimeters. In France, individuals are present in the South of France but they rarely exceed 20 centimeters.

The bite of centipedes is painful. They have two hooks under their heads that go through the skin and inject venom. The venom of tropical species is stronger than that of Mediterranean species, some species can even be fatal to humans.

Apart from sensitive or allergic people, the bites of centipedes present in France are painful but rarely dangerous.

The venom of centipedes, injected by the hooks during bites contains acetylcholine, histamine and serotonin. These products cause serious inflammatory reactions in the body, which can then be the cause:

• hyperthermia (fever);
• weaknesses;
• tremors.

Despite the pain, bites are rarely fatal to humans. The centipede venom has an unpleasant odor intended to scare away predators.

When biting, a sharp pain and a burning sensation appear. However, it is important to stay calm and not to panic. The first thing to do is to wash the bitten area thoroughly with soap and water. The purpose of this wash is to eliminate toxins that could remain on the skin, and to reduce the number of bacteria or viruses that can enter the wound. The use of gel or hydro-alcoholic solution is strongly discouraged because it would cause an additional burning sensation on the bite area. After the bite has been washed, a disinfectant such as chlorhexidine or betadine can be used.

The venom injected by the animal will cause a significant inflammatory reaction at the bite site. This will redden, swell, and become painful. The use of anti-inflammatory products can be beneficial in order to limit this reaction of the human body, and therefore to reduce the painful sensation associated with the bite. For example, paracetamol or ibuprofen can be used while respecting the precautions for use and the usual doses.

In addition, the application of wet compresses can be of interest to help control the inflammatory reaction. The application of compresses soaked in water heated to at least 45 ° can make it possible to deactivate part of the venom, which is said to be heat labile. On the contrary, the use of cold water compresses makes it possible to reduce the inflammatory reaction, the edema of the bite area, and therefore the pain.

Normally, the itching disappears spontaneously after 12 to 24 hours. Monitoring of the bite site should be done until it has completely healed to ensure that the wound does not become infected. If the signs associated with the bite persist beyond 24 hours or if the person is allergic to the bite, it will be important to see a doctor. He can then make a prescription to prescribe a local anti-inflammatory cream based on corticosteroids, to be used in addition to anti-inflammatory drugs taken systemically, and possibly anti-histamines to avoid a runaway immune response and allergic type reactions.

Centipedes like warm, dark and humid places. In the South of France, even if they are most often found outdoors, near wood piles, tree stumps or under leaves, it can happen that one or two centipedes take up residence in your home. They will then tend to take refuge behind household appliances, behind doors, in sheets, etc.

It will then be necessary to call a professional to get rid of it in a simple and effective way.