Centipedes come in various sizes and colors and are found all over the United States and throughout the world. They have one pair of legs for each of their body segments, which may number from 15 to more than 100. Therefore, despite their name, centipedes may not always have exactly 100 feet. The giant desert centipede is the only one in the United States dangerous to humans. Their length can get up to six or even eight inches.
Most centipedes live in crevices or beneath objects on the ground - hiding in dark places. Therefore, they are usually found under boards, in cracks and crevices, in basements and other moist locations, where they hide during the day and venture forth at night. Check shoes, clothing and bedding before use while traveling or sleeping in centipede-infested areas.As with spiders, any centipede whose fangs can penetrate human skin can inject venom. Those arthropods inject toxic substances into the skin from a pair of hollow jaws that act like fangs. Contrary to popular belief, centipedes do not inject venom with their feet. Exaggerated stories about the deadly effects of their bite and reports that the tip of each leg carries a poisonous spur have caused many people to have a great fear of centipedes. The venom is relatively weak.
Signs of a bite
Generally, bite indications are burning pain, local inflammation at the wound site with mild swelling of the lymph nodes. The bite of the giant desert centipede causes inflammation, swelling and redness lasting four to 12 hours. Swelling and tenderness may last for as long as three weeks or may disappear and recur.
First aid
- Clean the wound with soap and water.
- Apply an ice pack at the bite site.
- Give an analgesic for pain - aspirin, acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
- For inflamed lymph glands, seek medical attention.
Millipedes
Do not confuse centipedes with millipedes. Millipedes have two pairs of legs per body segment and cannot inject venom. Their secretions can irritate the skin. Treat by washing with soap and water and applying a cortisone cream or ointment.