The Banner Poison Information Center says there’s been a surge in calls from Arizonans stung by scorpions.
In Arizona, the number of calls is up 18% from a year ago. There is also a national increase of about 20%.
The increase is likely related to the pandemic. With more people working from home, the potential to get stung is increased.
Managing director of the Banner Poison and Drug Information Center Maureen Roland says the most dangerous and common species in Arizona is the bark scorpion. Scorpion venom can lead to numbness throughout the body and trouble breathing.
Children are most at risk of having severe symptoms.
Some tips to help prevent stings at home include putting glass jars under the legs of furniture, and putting nets over cribs.
Roland added warmer temperatures have also brought an increase in snake bites. She says the best thing to do if stung or bit is to call poison control right away.
