Bites and stings
Australia is home to many venomous creatures, including spiders, snakes, jellyfish and insects. While most bites or stings are relatively harmless, some can cause serious illness, allergic reactions or even death.
Use the links below to learn more about animals and plants that can bite or sting you, symptoms to watch out for, treatment options and tips for prevention.
Bed bugs
Bed bugs are small insects that feed on blood, cause itchy bites and can be hard to get rid of. Learn more about bed bug treatment and prevention.
Dog, cat, bat and human bites
Dog, cat and human bites are the most common types of animal bite. Here's what to do if you get bitten by an animal or have contact with a bat.
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Head lice
Head lice are tiny insects that feed on blood by biting skin. Here's what to do if your child's affected by lice - and how to prevent an infestation.
Insect bites and stings
Explore treatment and prevention methods for insect bites and stings. Learn about symptoms, first aid and severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis).
Mosquito bites
Mosquito bites cause an itchy, red, swollen lump. Learn more about the symptoms, treatments and when to see a doctor for mozzie bites.
Mosquito-borne diseases
Some illnesses are transmitted by mosquitoes ('mozzies'), including malaria, Dengue fever and the Zika virus.
Sea creature bites and stings
Sea creature stings and bites can be serious due to venom through their teeth, tentacles, spines, or skin. Learn when to get help.
Snake bites
A snake bite is a medical emergency. Learn what to do if you're bitten by a snake. Find out about the symptoms and first aid for snake bites.
Spider bites
Find out what to do if you're bitten by a spider. Bites from funnel-web spiders, redback spiders and white tail spiders need different first aid.
Stinging plants
Stinging trees and nettles can hurt. Find out what these stinging plants look like, how to prevent stings and what to do if you do get stung.
Tick bites
Tick bites can cause allergies and transmit infections. Learn how you can avoid tick bites and what to do if you are bitten by a tick.
Insect bites - infographic
What you need to know about insect bites, including symptoms, treatment and signs of a severe allergic reaction.
Insect stings - infographic
What you need to know about insect stings, including symptoms, treatment and signs of a severe allergic reaction.
