Hospital admissions in England for spider bites have doubled over the past decade, intensifying the search for effective protection. NHS figures reveal 100 hospital admissions linked to spider bites in 2025, up from 47 in 2015.
Rise Blamed on Noble False Widow Spider
The increase has largely been attributed to the spread of the UK's most dangerous spider, the noble false widow. This week, a 49-year-old Londoner, Adrian Martel, was left with a gaping wound in his chest after being bitten by one. Originally native to the Canary Islands and Madeira, these spiders are becoming increasingly common across Britain.
Expert Advice on Repellents
Dr Nisa Aslam, a London-based NHS GP, advised on how to prevent bites. She recommended natural repellents such as tea tree, citronella, lavandin grosso, niaouli, and peppermint. These ingredients are non-neurotoxic and provide hours of protection. She suggested using Puressentiel's Bite & Sting Repellent & Soothing Spray, which contains all these ingredients.
Tea tree oil overwhelms spiders' sensory receptors with its strong scent. Lavandin grosso, a hybrid of true lavender and spike lavender, is effective due to its high camphor concentration. Niaouli contains eucalyptol and nerolidol, which disrupt insect nervous systems. Peppermint deters pests with menthol and menthone.
Precautionary Measures
Dr Aslam warned that hot weather increases the likelihood of spider encounters. With temperatures set to reach 33C in parts of England over the bank holiday weekend, she advised wearing long sleeves and trousers if repellents are unavailable.
Mr Martel believes the spider was lurking on his car seatbelt, as the bite mark was on his chest. He initially noticed itching and a bump, which later developed into a massive crater requiring surgical removal.
NHS Guidance on Spider Bites
The NHS states that spider bites in the UK are rare except from noble false widows, which usually bite if handled or disturbed. Symptoms include a wasp-sting-like sensation and small puncture marks. In rare cases, severe reactions may occur. Emergency help should be sought for symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as swelling of the lips or throat, difficulty breathing, or collapse.
Growing Threat from Ticks
Dr Aslam also highlighted the rising threat of ticks in the UK. Cases of Lyme disease, caused by bacteria carried by ticks, have increased by over 20% in England, with 1,168 confirmed cases in 2025. Symptoms include flu-like illness, chronic joint pain, and heart problems. She advised staying protected as the UK is a hotspot for biting insects.
