Centipedes are long, skinny bugs with many body segments. Each segment has 1 pair of legs. Centipedes are more active at night. They like to live in warm, damp places. They use 2 pincer-like forelegs near their heads to bite skin. The pincers release a venom or poison.
After a sting, children will likely cry and be grouchy. Common symptoms include pain, swelling, and redness at the sting site. In most cases, symptoms go away in 48 hours. In some cases, more serious problems can occur. These can include infection and breakdown of tissue and skin at the sting site. Allergic reaction can also occur.
Treatment includes washing the wound. Cold compresses are also applied to the sting site. If needed, a local anesthetic or medicine may be given to relieve pain. Medicines may also be given for swelling and itching. A tetanus shot may be given to prevent infection as well.
Home care
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Your child may be prescribed medicines. Be sure to follow all instructions when giving the medicines to your child.
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Apply a cold compress to the sting site for about 15 minutes at a time to ease pain, swelling, and itching. You can use a cool, wet washcloth. Or you can make a cold pack by filling a plastic bag that seals at the top with ice cubes, then wrapping it with a thin towel. Don’t put ice directly on the skin. Some children may prefer warm compresses. If you use these, check the skin often. In certain cases, warm compresses may make symptoms worse.
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Watch your child for signs of infection (see below).
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Watch your child for signs of allergic reaction (see below).
Prevention
To help prevent centipede stings in the future, take steps to limit centipede exposure in the house:
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Reduce other household insects.
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Dry any damp areas.
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Clear debris around the house.
Follow-up care
Follow up with your child’s health care provider, or as advised.
Special note to parents
For more information, call the National Poison Control Center at 800-222-1222.
When to contact your child's doctor
Contact the provider right away if:
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Your child has a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or as advised by the provider.
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Your child's symptoms don't go away or get worse.
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Your child shows signs of infection at the sting site. This includes increased redness or streaking, warmth, bleeding, or bad-smelling fluid leaking.
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Your child shows signs of allergic reaction, such as:
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Hives, itching, or rash.
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Swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat.
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Wheezing or trouble breathing.
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Lightheadedness, dizziness, or fainting.
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Featured in
Online Medical Reviewer: Amy Finke RN BSN
Online Medical Reviewer: Liora C Adler MD
Online Medical Reviewer: Tara Novick BSN MSN
Date Last Reviewed: 03/01/2025
© 2000-2026 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
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