Silverfish in Baby's Neck Crease: Harmless but Startling

UK parent finds 1 cm silver/grey bug in baby's neck fold. It "slithered like a snake," no visible legs/antennae, tapered body.

Identification: Silverfish (Lepisma saccharina)

Also called fishmoths. Primitive, wingless insects. Legs and antennae are short and hard to see. Move with rapid, fish-like undulations.

Are They Dangerous?

No. Don't bite, sting, or transmit disease. They eat starches: paper, glue, book bindings, wallpaper paste, cereals.

Control

• Reduce humidity (dehumidifier, ventilation).
• Store paper/books in dry, sealed containers.
• Vacuum cracks and crevices.
• Diatomaceous earth in wall voids if persistent.

Common in bathrooms, basements, attics. One in a diaper area is a random wanderer, not an infestation sign.