The corner chandelier (Loxosceles laeta) is one of the most feared arachnids in Chile, especially during hot weather. Their bite has a necrotic effect on the tissues, which can cause serious complications and even be life-threatening in extreme cases. According to the Institute of Public Health (ISP), the first symptom is usually a stinging sensation in the skin, followed by intense pain and increased volume in the affected area. Although an immediate injury is not always seen, the damage can progress rapidly in the first few hours.
What to do in case of a bite?
The Ministry of Health of Chile (Minsal) has established a guide for the management of corner spider bites. The key steps are:
- Wash the wound with soap and water and leave the affected limb at rest.
- Capture the spider if it is alive, in a container with a lid and a cotton ball moistened with water. If it is dead, keep it in a dry container.
- Seek immediate medical attention, going to the nearest emergency service.
- The spider should not be stepped on, as this can make it difficult to identify, which is necessary for proper treatment.
How to prevent contact with the corner spider?
The best strategy against corner chandelier is to avoid direct contact. According to Claudia González, an academic at the University of Las Américas, there are key preventive measures that help minimize the risk:
- Maintain cleanliness and order behind furniture, pictures, dishwashers and corners of the bathroom.
- Separate the beds from the walls at least 10 centimeters.
- Shake and check clothes, beds and shoes before using them.
What additional care should be considered at home?
You should avoid hanging clothes or towels on the walls and check furniture and objects before bringing them into the home. Additionally, sealing cracks and ducts in walls is key to preventing spiders come inside. It is also recommended not to accumulate materials that may attract insects, since these are a food source for the nook spider.
When entering warehouses, closets or closed places, doing so with caution is essential. Illuminating the space and causing noise will help the spiders they move away If it is necessary to handle objects that are stacked or stored for a long time, it is advisable to wear gloves and appropriate footwear to avoid accidental bites.
