The myth of the Brown Recluse Spider

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The story appears to be from from a person who was asking for information about the spider and it's bite.  According to some arachnid specialists the story was recently ressurected and they had a number of very concerned people seeking advice based on the email. In case you didn't see the warning. This email is about a fake warning!!!

I received this email today, from a relative (non medical).
I do not know the source or the species of spider. But the necrosis is
severe.

Subject: FW: Spider Bite

This is a new known spider, so please take note. Has been found all over
Eastern Aust and heading to WA. Looks similar to a huntsman.

This spider is in all states so watch out in fact it looks a little bit
like a huntsman.

Please take note of this spider - it is very dangerous. Please warn
kids and send to every one you know to alert them as well! This spider is breeding at a rate of speed and is found in more and more houses!
 
 
Photos below

The Brown Recluse Spider

Image ifromthe scam email

from the phoney email

Supposedly the initial bite site after fifty days (above left) and after 63 days (above right)

Warning, story contains graphic images of necrotic flesh

More terrifying images of the supposed bite site as the decay progressed. Scroll down for the truth about necrotic wasting and spiders in Australia

A reply from one of the most respected spider experts in Australia went like this and was echoed by several of their peers

The series of photos have been around for years and originate in the US and has nothing to do with Australia

*the spider does not cause the wound

*the spider only occurs in a very restricted suburban area in a southern Australian State, has been here for approx 20 years and has not extended its range and no bites have occurred from it

* Our native White-tailed Spiders (Lampona spp.) have also been erroneously blamed for the development of a similar lesion

* no Australian spider is know to have necrotic (tissue-destroying) venom

* the causes of these bites (see link) are diverse and not related to spiders

This is a link to an excellent account of the situation and is free to downlaod (1.9 megabytes) for all:

Please read this and don't malign the spiders!

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