Bali Tourists Alerted to Skin Rash Risks

Gabrielle Vanessa, an Adelaide mother, suffered painful rashes and blisters weeks after encountering a tomcat beetle while on holiday in Bali. The beetle’s toxin, stronger than cobra venom, caused a red rash and large blisters on her thigh, which she described as “burn patches.” Vanessa advises travelers to avoid contact with the beetle and wash affected areas with soap and water, seeking medical attention if necessary.