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False Widow Bites Surge: Hospitals See Record Admissions
13 Apr
Summary
- Hospital admissions for spider bites in England have doubled since 2015.
- The noble false widow spider is believed to be responsible for the rise.
- Severe complications from bites can include sepsis and, rarely, amputation.
Provisional NHS data from England reveals a concerning doubling of hospital admissions related to spider bites since 2015. In 2025, approximately 100 individuals were hospitalized following contact with or toxic effects from spiders, a stark increase from the 47 admissions recorded a decade prior.
Experts largely attribute this escalation to the proliferation of the noble false widow spider, a species introduced to the UK and now widely established. Originally from Madeira and the Canary Islands, this spider has become prevalent in British homes, often found in kitchens. Ecologists note that severe bites, while rare, can lead to serious health issues.
While the spider's venom can cause pain, the most significant risks stem from bacteria it carries, potentially leading to sepsis. In exceptionally rare cases, this can result in amputation or even death. The noble false widow is described as being more prone to biting than previously understood.
Admissions have steadily climbed, with 43 cases in 2021, rising to 95 in 2022, and maintaining high numbers with 91 in both 2023 and 2024. A substantial proportion, around two-thirds, required emergency treatment. Advice for those bitten includes washing the wound, applying a cold compress, and seeking medical attention if symptoms worsen.
