Summer is not the only time bugs bite. Poisonous spiders could be lurking in your attic or garage this winter.

Hi, I’m Dr. John Hellerstedt and this CHILDREN’S HEALTH MINUTE is presented by TexCare ­ connecting Texas families with children’s health insurance for 18 dollars a month or less.

If a poisonous spider, such as the brown recluse, bites your child, get medical help as soon as possible.

Wash the bite well with soap and water, apply ice, elevate it and have the child keep still.  Your doctor may treat the bite with medication such as antibiotics, steroids or pain medicine.

After 4-to-8 hours the bite of a brown recluse may start hurting more and could appear bruised ­ your doctor will want to keep a close eye on the spider bite. 

This is Dr. John Hellerstedt, reminding you that no child should be without health insurance.  Call TexCare at 1-800-647-6558 to apply.