Paraguayan residents are being urged to heighten vigilance in their homes as rising temperatures and humidity levels prompt an increase in scorpion sightings, particularly in dark and damp areas.
In an interview with Radio 1080 AM, Edgar Sanabria, head of Surveillance of Accidents by Venomous Animals at Paraguay’s Ministry of Health, explained that warmer, more humid conditions are encouraging scorpions to seek shelter indoors.
“Scorpions are the same animals we have always had; they are simply moving in search of food or during their mating period,” Sanabria said. “It is not an attack on humans; their venom is used for defence or to capture prey.”
How scorpions enter homes
The arachnids most commonly gain access through bathroom and kitchen vents, Mr Sanabria noted. He recommended fitting these openings with fine mosquito netting or closable vents, and sealing gaps under doors with weatherstripping.
He further advised against placing beds – especially children’s beds – directly against walls or curtains, as scorpions can climb textile surfaces.
Identifying the dangerous species
While the vast majority of stings cause only intense localised pain, Sanabria highlighted the risk posed by the “blond scorpion” (Tityus bahiensis), recognisable by its yellowish or light-brown colour, and slender pincers. This species is responsible for the most serious cases.
In 2023, four fatalities from scorpion stings were recorded in Paraguay, primarily involving children. Of all incidents, 98% result in pain alone, but 2% can lead to moderate or severe symptoms requiring antivenom.
Treatment and antivenom availability
Paraguay maintains a national stock of antivenom, distributed at facilities including the Institute of Tropical Medicine and Barrio Obrero General Hospital. Patients may receive treatment locally or be referred depending on medical assessment.
In the event of a sting, Sanabria stressed applying ice immediately and seeking urgent medical care. He strongly cautioned against cutting the skin, attempting to suck out venom, or using folk remedies such as garlic, onion, or creosote. Self-medication, he added, can mask dangerous symptoms including nausea, vomiting, and rapid heartbeat.
Practical detection tips
Scorpions fluoresce under ultraviolet light, making a UV torch a useful tool for checking rooms – particularly children’s bedrooms – at night. Sanabria emphasised that only adults should handle these torches. He also warned that dogs are at risk, as they often investigate scorpions by sniffing them. No antivenom exists for pets, so immediate veterinary attention is essential. Sanabria dismissed the widespread belief that scorpions always appear in pairs and confirmed that products such as creosote have no scientific evidence as repellents.
Seventy percent of cases are concentrated in Asunción and the Central Department, though both the Eastern and Western Regions have reported incidents. Prevention over fumigation fumigation, he explained, kills the insects scorpions feed on but does not eliminate the scorpions themselves. The most effective approach remains physical barriers and regular inspection of living spaces.
“Scorpions are part of our environment,” Mr Sanabria concluded. “Our responsibility is to minimise contact and, prevent accidents.”
More about protection about unwanted animals: Paraguay launched its first-ever dengue vaccination campaign.
