The scorpion is an arachnid belonging to the order Scorpiones. some types are poisonous and can be dangerous to humans and other animals. The appearance of these unwelcome critters is common in hot and arid climates. Including, they are usually found and live in holes in the ground or in the woods.
According to a survey by the São Paulo government, cases of accidents involving scorpions increased by 22% in 2022, when compared to those recorded in the previous year. The Center for Epidemiological Surveillance (CVE) warns that the risk of sightings of the venomous animal always increases in the summer. In 2021, there were 34,500 cases registered. In the following year, the number increased to 41.1 thousand.
Compared to 2020, the increase was smaller: just 10%, which is equivalent to 38,100 cases.
In summer, it is common for there to be an increase in the activity of venomous animals, such as scorpions, snakes, spiders and insects. This is because the hot and humid climate favors the reproduction of animals and increases the chances of finding them in urban and rural areas.
For this reason, always keep the house environments more organized and clean, avoiding the accumulation of garbage, debris and the appearance of cockroaches and flies, which can serve as food for the scorpions.
The director of the CVE's Division of Zoonoses, Roberta Spínola, said in a statement that the bites of this animal can be lethal, especially in children up to 10 years old. It advises that, in case of accident, the victim must seek a health unit as soon as possible to receive the necessary treatment.
Scorpions can be found in holes in the ground, under rocks, in trees or even on buildings. They are nocturnal animals and tend to hide during the day to avoid the heat. So pay attention to clothes and shoes. The orientation is to shake these objects before using them.
The state of São Paulo has reference centers, spread across several regions, aimed at assisting in cases of accidents with venomous animals.
