Osaka Expo Issues Redback Spider Warning After Egg Discovery

The organizers of the Osaka Kansai Expo have issued a warning regarding the presence of redback spiders within the expo venue. This alert comes after the discovery of the spiders' eggs in an area accessible to the general public.

The Japan Association for the 2025 World Exposition, in a notice published online, has requested that visitors report any sightings of the venomous spiders to expo staff. Since the expo's opening in April, at least 70 redback spiders have been found in areas restricted to authorized personnel.

Professional pest control services have been employed to eliminate the spiders, which are classified as an invasive alien species. The recent discovery of a cluster of redback spider eggs on a table used by visitors on September 9th triggered the public alert.

The Osaka prefectural government's environmental health division indicates that redback spiders are more active during the summer months. Although not inherently aggressive, they may bite if handled or touched with bare hands. A bite typically causes a sharp, localized pain that can spread, potentially leading to symptoms like chills and nausea. Individuals bitten by a redback spider are advised to wash the affected area with water and seek immediate medical attention.