Across the world, millions of people get snake bites annually. According to the WHO, about 2 million people get venomous bites in Asia every year. Africa records about five hundred and eighty thousand snake-derived bites annually.
The numbers may seem frightening, but they are only estimates based on reported cases. Keep in mind that most cases go unreported. So the actual numbers are higher. The bites are most common in rural areas with limited access to healthcare, where people may not have the means to seek proper medical attention.
Most victims, therefore, turn to traditional healing methods to survive. Unfortunately, many do not make it due to complications or lack of proper treatment.
Who Can Get Snake Bites
Anyone can get bitten by snakes, but those at the highest risk include
rural agricultural workers
herders
fishermen,
hunters
working
children,
people living in poorly constructed houses and
those with limited access to education and healthcare.
Symptoms of Venomous Snake Bites
Venomous snake bites can cause a variety of symptoms, including
localized pain and swelling
nausea
convulsions
paralysis
difficulty in breathing
and kidney failure
thirst
low blood pressure
drooping eyelid
weakness
change in skin color
shock
stomach pain
Whether the snake is venomous or not, all snake bites should be considered emergencies because even non-venomous bites can lead to fatal outcomes such as allergies
What to Do For Victims
Commonly recommended first aid tips such as applying ice, using a tourniquet, and elevating the affected area above the heart have been proven to be ineffective and are not recommended. Instead, the following steps should be taken immediately after a snake bite:
Restrict the movement of victims to reduce the circulation of venom in the body. Victims should be carried and should not walk, even if they are capable of doing so.
Remove constricting clothing around the area of the bite. This is to reduce pain when the area swells
Take note of the time of the bite. This helps in the treatment
Take a picture of the snake if possible and send it with the victim to the hospital. This will help to decide the correct antivenom to administer to the patient.
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