I’m in a unique position within the context of scorpion stings in Southern Africa. With this position, comes a unique perspective and a responsibility to give direction within Southern Africa.
I’ve written a new book which offers a new science based and innovative scorpion sting first response framework. It is based upon data from the National Poison Information helpline, the latest science, the new model of managing envenomation, and my unique intimate understanding of scorpions (I also wrote Scorpions of Southern Africa). Carefully combined into a first response framework that is easy to understand and implement.
It gives me great pleasure to write this Foreword for Jonathan Leeming’s latest book. He is a consummate expert on the subject of scorpion envenomation and the management thereof. This book is aimed at addressing the layperson, the medical professional with limited knowledge and the expert non-medical person who may be called on to assist with scorpion identification.
This work adds a novel aspect with the three-part classification of the venomosity and the very practical four-part symptom and signs approach. By balancing the two it is possible to identify very early on the patient who will benefit from early medical care by a trained professional.
While snakebites, non-venomous animal attacks, and even spider bites, often are more common than scorpion stings the latter is no less serious or potentially dangerous. Having the practical approaches in your armament will make the reader stronger in the ability to manage these infrequent events.
The role of the one-world approach to human, animal, insect and plant or nature interaction is vitally important as the world faces ever decreasing natural spaces and as such the concrete jungle becomes the home to scorpions of various species. To live in harmony, yet avoid conflict between species or extinction of species is very pertinent. This aspect is addressed in the advice to not kill scorpions, since they have a major role in the ecosystem.
Enjoy this book – it is written with passion, by an expert humble enough to ask other “experts” for input, revision and support, which shows the true scientist behind the author.
Regards
Associate Professor
Timothy Hardcastle
Trauma Surgeon and Co-Chair: National Snakebite Advisory Group
Professor of Surgery, UKZN
For the purposes of the 2025 EcoLogic Awards, a 7.6mb PDF of the Essential Scorpion Sting First Response Book can be downloaded for the judges consideration. Please consider this file as confidential. Together we can change tomorrow today!
Based upon Jonathan's latest book, Essential Scorpion Sting First Response, this free online short course offers an overview of the key points of scorpion sting first response. The course consists of 10 short modules followed by an online assessment and certificate. Designed for mobile devices.
Based upon Jonathan's latest book, Essential Scorpion Sting First Response, this 45 minute presentation that focuses upon the key points of effective scorpion sting first response. Suitable for all ages, This presentation is ideal for anyone wanting to complete the FREE Essential Scorpion sting First response Online Course.
Based upon Jonathan's essential first response framework, the spider bite and scorpion sting first aid workshop is an exploration of the environment in search of spiders and scorpions. We’ll find a place somewhere to have a short presentation with visuals and an interactive workshop that offers participants a fundamental understanding of spider bites and scorpion stings.
Based upon Jonathan's latest book, Essential Scorpion Sting First Response, this 3 hour course consists of a presentation followed by an interactive workshop. Participants write a multiple choice assessment and receive a certificate.
Based upon the contents of the Essential Scorpion Sting First Response Book, this workbook empowers individuals to occupy a leadership role within their community or organisation. The workbook is designed to be the most cost effective distance learning, completed in the participants own time and at their own pace, and at any location.
The Essential Scorpion Sting First Response Distance Learning offers professional development for career driven individuals. Based upon the contents of the Essential Scorpion Sting First Response Book, this course is a vital component in reducing the burden of scorpion stings across southern Africa as it empowers individuals to occupy a leadership role within their organisation and community. Distance learning is designed to be completed in the participants own time and at their own pace, at any location, and includes assessment of the workbook, certification and support.
The following resources offer support in your leadership role within your organisation and community. Feel free to forward these educational resources on to your community groups and social groups.
South African Bird Fair, 6th September 2025
Oppenhiemer Research Conference 2025, 15th to 17th October 2025
Eswatini Snakebite Symposium, 22nd & 23rd November 2025
Eswatini Snakebite Symposium, 30th & 31st January 2026
