SHE SC08 Appendix 2 Animals

SC08 Appendix 2 Animals
11 May 2023

Yes
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Animals, insects and Parasites

Hazard	Effects and possible Controls for the Hazard
Insect, Arachnid or similar bites and stings	STFC staff could suffer life threatening conditions from reaction to venom from a bite. STFC staff could suffer stress and discomfort from uncertainties associated with a snake, insect or animal bite to which UK inhabitants are not exposed in everyday life. Envenomation may cause some local tissue necrosis around the bite site and could well lead to serious spreading human tissue destruction (necrosis) or even human death. Neurotoxins in bites and stings will cause weakness and paralysis. Venom contacting the eyes can cause severe damage and may result in blindness. Certain spiders such as Tarantulas have toxins in the hairs covering their bodies which can cause intense irritation on contact with the skin. Controls to reduce the risk Consult with those familiar with this type of hazard as to measures to avoid contact or medical procedures in the event of a bite. Make others aware if you are specifically at risk from an allergic response to bites. Carry any appropriate medication specific to you. Seek immediate medical attention, especially for snake, scorpion or spider bites/stings, and if possible identify the source of the bite. Clean with disinfectant and keep any bite wound clean from infection. Avoid being exposed to these species at night since this is when they are particularly active. Avoid walking barefoot or in open sandals in terrain where venomous snakes, scorpions or spiders may be present. Wear boots or closed shoes and long trousers. Avoid direct contact with spiders where there are known to be species of Tarantula. Certain spiders, e.g. Tarantulas, have toxins in the hairs covering their bodies which can cause intense irritation on contact with the skin.
Contact with dangerous animals	There are specific areas where STFC staff can come into contact with dangerous animals e.g. polar bears on Svalbard. Controls to reduce the risk Follow all local rules and advice given by those familiar with the particular animal hazard.
Rabies	Animals suffering from rabies often become aggressive and may attack without provocation. Rabies represents the most important infectious health hazard from animal bites. In many developing countries, rabies is transmitted mainly by dogs, but many other species of mammals can be infected by the rabies virus. Controls to reduce the risk If a significant risk of exposure to rabies is foreseen, seek medical advice before travelling. Avoid direct contact with domestic animals in areas where rabies occurs, and with all wild and captive animals. Seek medical or veterinary advice should be sought about the possibility of rabies in the area. Where a significant risk of rabies exists, the patient should be treated with post-exposure rabies vaccination and immunoglobulin. A booster dose of tetanus toxoid is also recommended following an animal bite.
Insects and other vectors of disease	Vectors, such as bloodsucking insects, play an essential role in the transmission of many infectious diseases. Typical insect vectors are mosquitoes, bloodsucking flies and ticks. The transmission of many vector-borne diseases is seasonal because of the relationship with rainfall and breeding sites. Controls to reduce the risk Avoid, if possible, travelling to countries with significant insect vector problems, for example during wet seasons. There is a lower risk of exposure to these insects in urban centres, especially if sleeping in air-conditioned rooms. The exception to this is exposure to dengue fever which is frequent in urban centres in tropical countries. Use insect repellent containing either DEET or Icaridin. Apply to both exposed skin and clothing. Follow instructions for the application of the repellents. Use mosquito nets, either with or without insecticide treatment, while sleeping.
Intestinal parasites	Exposure to a number of intestinal parasitic worms, particularly when visiting tropical or subtropical countries. This risk is normally associated with low standards of hygiene and sanitation. Clinical effects may take some time to become apparent. The main intestinal parasites are likely to be; Hookworms, Tapeworms, Roundworms and Whipworms. Controls to reduce the risk Follow common-sense precautions for avoiding unsafe food and drink. Only use hotels of sufficient standard that exposure to these parasites is minimised. Drink only bottled water and clean teeth in bottled water, making sure the seal is intact before opening the bottle for the first time.

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