3-year-old child in Catanduanes gets burn in foot due to millipede toxin

A three-year-old child from Virac, Catanduanes suffered a burn in his foot after an encounter with a millipede.

According to Kuya Kim's report on "24 Oras," Friday, the child's mother asked for help from the Facebook page of Catanduanes Biodiversity, a non-government organization.

The mother sent a direct message and included a photo of her child's foot, with the toes sporting a dark purple or almost black in color. It developed when the child wore shoes and a millipede happened to be inside.

"Ayon po sa kuwento ng nanay, nung pinasok 'yung paa at na-trigger 'yung millipede kaya as part of defense mechanism naglabas siya ng toxin o poison para protection sa kanyang sarili," said Feliciano De Leon, a biologist and member of Catanduanes Biodiversity.

("According to the mother's story, when the child inserted his foot the millipede got triggered and as part of its defense mechanism, released a toxin or poison to protect itself.")

Dr. Grace Carole Beltran, a dermatologist, said millipedes can produce a severe allergic reaction as they emit hydrochloric acid and hydrogen cyanide.

What can you do in case of a millipede burn? 

Beltran advised washing the affected area first and applying hydrocortisone cream or any steroid. Cold compress can also help relieve the burning sensation.

—MGP, GMA Integrated News