House centipedes are generally not dangerous to humans. They can bite if threatened, but their bites are rare, mildly painful, and usually cause only minor swelling or redness similar to a bee sting. Their venom is designed to subdue small insects and is not potent enough to cause serious harm to humans or pets. House centipedes prefer to flee rather than bite and actually provide a beneficial role by controlling populations of other pests like spiders, cockroaches, and termites in the home. In summary:
- House centipedes are venomous but not poisonous to humans.
- Bites are uncommon and cause minor localized pain and swelling.
- They are more beneficial than harmful by reducing other insect populations in homes.
- Severe allergic reactions are rare.
- They are generally considered a nuisance rather than a threat.
Therefore, while they may look unsettling, house centipedes do not pose a significant danger to people or pets.