Scorpion stings hit record highs in Brazil
Brazil is seeing a sharp rise in dangerous scorpion stings, with reported cases increasing by more than 150% in the past decade.
According to experts, climate change and rapid urban growth are making the problem worse.
From 2014 to 2023, Brazil recorded over 1.17 million scorpion stings. In 2023 alone, more than 170,000 cases were reported, indicating a huge increase from around 67,000 in 2014.
Data from early 2024 shows nearly 200,000 cases and at least 133 deaths, a higher number than deaths caused by snakes.
However, scientists are warning that these figures may be lower than the real total because many people in poorer or rural areas treat stings at home rather than visit the hospital.
The rise in cases has been linked to Brazil’s expanding cities, where poor planning, open drains, and piles of rubbish serve as hiding places for scorpions. Cities also offer plenty of food for them, such as cockroaches and other insects.
One of the main species behind the stings is Tityus serrulatus, or the yellow scorpion, which thrives in cities and reproduces very quickly because it doesn’t need a mate to reproduce.
These scorpions can also survive without food for long periods and face few natural predators in urban areas.
Children and elderly people are at greater risk, as they are less able to fight off the effects of the venom. While only a small number of stings result in death, some victims suffer long-term health problems, especially if they don’t get antivenom treatment quickly.
Health officials are warning people to get medical help immediately if stung.
“If someone is stung, don’t wait for symptoms to worsen, go to the nearest healthcare facility immediately,” Professor Eliane Candiani Arantes from the University of São Paulo was quoted by ZME Science as saying.
A recent study used time-series modelling to predict that Brazil could see nearly 275,000 cases of scorpion stings each year by 2033. Most of these are expected in the Southeast and Northeast regions.
Other Latin American countries, including Paraguay, Bolivia, Venezuela and Mexico, are also reporting more scorpion stings. Scientists believe climate change is helping scorpions spread, with warmer and wetter weather making new areas suitable for them.
In Europe, more than 35 species of scorpions exist, but experts say there's no sign of a major crisis there yet. However, they warn that countries should keep monitoring the situation.
