Violin spider bites spark health concerns in Italy

The violin spider, scientifically known as Loxosceles rufescens, has gained public attention following reports of fatalities, including the death of a 38-year-old woman in Rome who reportedly succumbed to complications after being bitten.

Experts note that while the spider is not highly aggressive and typically bites only when disturbed, its venom possesses cytotoxic properties. This can cause redness, burning, and in less than 5% of cases, tissue necrosis. Symptoms may be delayed, appearing 24 to 48 hours after an initially painless bite. Medical professionals advise caution, particularly for children, the elderly, and vulnerable individuals.

To distinguish the violin spider from the common and harmless Filistata spider, experts point to the uniform color of the abdomen and the number of eyes. The violin spider, part of the Sicariidae family, has three pairs of eyes, whereas the Filistata has eight. Common hiding places in homes include lofts, spaces behind wardrobes, garages, and stairwells.