Prevention & Treatment

Snakebites can be life-threatening, but proper prevention and quick medical response can save lives. Avoiding snake-prone areas at night, wearing protective footwear, and keeping surroundings clean can reduce risks. In case of a bite, stay calm, immobilize the limb, and seek immediate medical attention—do not cut, suck, or apply a tourniquet. Anti-Snake Venom (ASV) is the only effective treatment, and timely hospital care can prevent fatalities.

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Snakebite First-Aid Infographic

🚨 Immediate Actions (DO’s)

✅ Stay Calm & Reassure the Victim – Panic increases heart rate, spreading venom faster.
✅ Immobilize the Affected Limb – Keep it still and at or below heart level.
✅ Remove Tight Clothing, Rings, or Jewelry – Swelling may occur.
✅ Mark the Bite Site – Use a pen to note the time of the bite to track swelling.
✅ Rush to the Nearest Hospital – Anti-Snake Venom (ASV) is the only effective treatment.

🚫 Avoid These Mistakes (DON’Ts)

❌ Do NOT Cut, Suck, or Apply Pressure – It can cause severe infection or increase venom spread.
❌ Do NOT Apply Ice, Chemicals, or Alcohol – These don’t neutralize venom.
❌ Do NOT Use a Tourniquet – It can cause severe complications, including limb loss.
❌ Do NOT Try Herbal Remedies – They delay medical treatment, making the bite more dangerous.

🏥 Hospital Protocol for Snakebite Treatment

1️⃣ Triage & Initial Assessment

✅ Check for symptoms of neurotoxicity (paralysis, breathing difficulty) or hemotoxic effects (bleeding, swelling, organ damage).
✅ Monitor vitals: Blood pressure, pulse, respiration, oxygen levels.

2️⃣ Administer Anti-Snake Venom (ASV) If Needed

✅ ASV should only be given if venomous snakebite symptoms are confirmed.
✅ Dose & Frequency: Based on the severity of symptoms (10–20 vials for envenomation cases).

3️⃣ Manage Symptoms & Complications

✅ For Neurotoxic Bites (Cobra, Krait): Ensure ventilator support if breathing difficulty occurs.
✅ For Hemotoxic Bites (Vipers): Treat internal bleeding and kidney failure with supportive care.

4️⃣ Observe the Patient for 24 Hours

✅ Monitor for allergic reactions to ASV.
✅ Ensure no delayed venom effects occur.

5️⃣ Post-Treatment Care & Rehabilitation

✅ Wound care to prevent infection.
✅ Tetanus vaccination if required.
✅ Educate the patient and community about snakebite prevention.