Are house centipedes dangerous?
Although house centipedes can move quickly and startle people, they’re not dangerous.
The venom in their tiny bodies isn’t abundant enough to seriously harm humans.
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That said, a house centipede bite can hurt.
A centipede sting can trigger a histamine reaction and swelling similar to a bee stingbut less intense.
A centipede bite victim may have an allergic reaction requiring medical attention on rare occasions.
According to a 2021 study, most centipede bites occur on the feet and hands.
So, you shouldn’t squish them.
Where Do House Centipedes Live?
House centipedes like warm, humid climates and damp, dark habitats.
They’re native to the Mediterranean.
Centuries ago, house centipedes were accidentally introduced to the southeastern United States.
How a House Centipede Bite Looks
House centipede bites have a V-shape that looks like a chevron.
Most house centipede bites go unreported because they’re generally innocuous.
If a centipede bite triggersanaphylaxis, administerepinephrinewith anEpiPenandcall 911.
Start by cleansing the bite site with soap and water.
Apply acold compressorice packsto reduce burning sensations and curb inflammation.
Antibiotic ointments likeNeosporincan reduce the risk of infection.
Cover the wound site with a bandage to keep it moist and promote faster healing.
Oral OTC antihistamines likeBenadryl (diphenhydramine)can also help reduce venom-induced swelling and itchiness.
They can also crawl up drains or get inside through utility vents.
Sticky traps can also be set to catch them.
Concerns About Sleeping and Bedding
Do house centipedes crawl into your bed?
Yes, centipedes can crawl into your bed.
Taking steps to make your bedroom a centipede-free zone can minimize concerns about sleeping through the night.
If you live in a centipede-prone area, brighten the lights before bed.
Centipedes like dimly lit spaces and will scurry when the lights come on.
Also, shake out your pillowcases regularly and make your bed daily with tightly tucked-in sheets.
Summary
House centipedes can bite people, but their bites aren’t dangerous.
Most centipede bites make a small V-shaped wound that will heal quickly with standard first aid.
On rare occasion, someone might have an allergic reaction to a centipede bite.
If this happens, seek medical attention immediately or use an EpiPen to control the allergic reaction.
By nature, house centipedes are shy around people and will attempt to scurry away from humans whenever possible.
They come out at night and like dark, humid places.
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