1. With the arrival of the "summer" season, cases of snakebites tend to increase. The monsoon/rainy season further increases the likelihood of encountering these poisonous hazards. Worldwide, there are approximately 2,500,000 snakebites and 125,000 snakebite deaths each year.
2. Most snakes are not dangerous to humans. Only about 15% worldwide are poisonous. Venomous snakes are more often found in warmer and densely populated areas. Therefore, personnel working in hot areas must pay special attention.
3. Symptoms
Most snake bites occur on the limbs. Typical symptoms of a non-venomous snake bite are pain and scratching at the site. Usually, after a bite from a poisonous snake, there is a strong burning pain at the site within 15 to 30 minutes. This can progress to swelling and bruising in the wound and down the length of the arm or leg. Other signs and symptoms include nausea, labored breathing, a general feeling of weakness, and also a strange taste in the mouth.
Some snakes, such as coral snakes, have toxins that cause neurological symptoms such as tingling of the skin, difficulty speaking, and weakness. Sometimes a venomous snake can bite without injecting venom. These "dry bites" result in irritation at the site.
4. If you are bitten by a venomous snake, call your local emergency number immediately, especially if the bite area changes color, becomes swollen, or is painful. Many emergency rooms stock anti-venom medications that can help. Do not try to suck out the venom or cut yourself near the bite, and do not use a tourniquet. Keep the upper body elevated, allow the individual to rest, calm them down and apply a pressure immobilization bandage to the bite site as soon as possible. Try to get help immediately and rush the patient to the nearest hospital.
5. While waiting for medical attention, do the following:
· Move out of range of the snake.
· Stay still and calm to help slow the spread of the poison.
· Remove jewelry and tight clothing before swelling begins.
· If possible, position yourself so that the bite is at or below the level of your heart.
· Clean the wound with soap and water. Cover it with a clean, dry dressing.
6. Caution
· Do not use a tourniquet or apply ice.
· Do not cut the wound or attempt to remove the poison.
· Do not drink caffeine or alcohol, which can speed up the absorption of the poison by your body.
· Do not try to catch the snake. Remember its color and shape so you can describe it, which will help you with treatment. If you have a smartphone with you and it won't delay your help, take a picture of the snake from a safe distance to help with identification.
7. Safety measures
Follow-up precautions would be taken that can reduce the likelihood of these bites.
(a) Avoid wearing open sandals/slippers especially after sunset and before sunrise as most bites occur in the dark and on the feet. Wear full-length pants instead and avoid shorts.
(b) Ankle boots should be used with feet tucked into socks when moving at night.
(c) Shoes should be shaken in the morning before use.
(d) Do not enter or near bushes, especially when you are alone or at night.
(e) Ensure that a light, torch, or candle is available when entering a dark building, especially on the ground floor.
(f) Cleanliness and good housekeeping can reduce these hazards. Scattered objects and objects in homes and workplaces, especially shops, can provide shelters for snakes. Conduct personal security surveys of households and workplaces.
(g) Take precautions once, look for areas under entry doors or open drains where snakes can enter.
(h) Bedding should be thoroughly shaken before being used for sleeping.
(j) Regular trimming and cleaning of hedges around house fences would deny shelter to snakes and other reptiles.
Caution: A clean environment and safety awareness is the key to a safe and healthy life.
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