How to avoid snakebites

Snake anti-venoms are the only effective treatment to prevent or reverse most of the venomous effects of snakebites. They are included in the WHO List of Essential Medicines and should be part of any primary healthcare package where snakebites occur. PHOTO | FILE

What you need to know:

  • In the bush, wear sturdy leather shoes and stomp heavily when walking, striking with a stick on the ground in front of you to warn any reptiles you are coming.

  • Most strikes occur when snakes feel cornered or under threat, or when people accidentally step on them.

  • Thick, protective gloves are recommended for gardening and farming.

WATAMU,

If you live in a country with venomous snakes, or are travelling to one, here are a few tips to avoid being bitten.

Snakes usually will not attack unless they feel threatened.

In the bush, wear sturdy leather shoes and stomp heavily when walking, striking with a stick on the ground in front of you to warn any reptiles you are coming — they will most likely just slither away.

Most strikes occur when snakes feel cornered or under threat, or when people accidentally step on them.

'WELL-CAMOUFLAGED'

Outside, have a good look around you for snakes that may hang from tree branches or swim in water, and be careful when turning over rocks or other objects.

And remember: snakes are evolved to be well-camouflaged in their environment, whether it be the desert, forest or bush.

Thick, protective gloves are recommended for gardening and farming.

Carry a lamp at night.

Birds can help too: Many species possess an alarm cry to alert others of hidden danger.

INDOORS

Inside, check your bed and dark corners — snakes can enter homes in pursuit of prey, heat or water.

The neater your home, the more likely you will spot an out-of-place snake.

A mosquito net around your bed can be an effective snake repellent.

If you or someone else is bitten, try and remember the colour and shape of the snake, and seek immediately medical care at a clinic or hospital.

Remove any bracelets, rings or watches that may hamper blood flow in case of swelling.

Do NOT try and catch the snake, apply a tourniquet, cut the wound, suck out the venom, or drink alcohol or coffee.

Also do not seek to inject your own antivenom, which can induce a violent allergic reaction and needs to be administered in a professional environment with adrenaline and oxygen on hand.

Sources: Doctors Without Borders, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Health Action International, Bio-Ken research centre.