Snakes

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DID YOU KNOW? 98% of all SNAKE envenomations in the US are from Pit Vipers.
  • In the world - There are about 3,000 snake species responsible for more than 5 million snake bites per year with about 125,000 deaths per year
  • In the US – There are over 120 snake species responsible for more than 10,000 snake bites annually with only a few deaths per year.
  • In West Texas- There are over 100 snake species responsible for over 50 snake bites annually with less than 1 death per year.
  • 90% of the bites occur during the months of May - October
  • 90% of the bites involve males between the ages of 18 – 38
  • 80% of the bites are on the hand or fingers and involve deliberately handling or attempting to catch a snake
  • Only 15% of bites are in the foot or ankle area
  • Most exposures involve alcohol
  • Only 1% of snake envenomations are from coral snakes and 1% from other species

Pit Viper Characteristics

  • Triangular head
  • Vertical or elliptical pupil (cat-like eyes)
  • Facial pit or a special heat sense organ between eyes and nostrils
  • 2 elongated upper maxillary teeth which can be unfolded from resting position to biting position
  • Speed- 3 mph     Striking speed- 8 ft/sec     Range-1/2 body length
  • Rattler
    • Copperhead
    • Cottonmouth/Water Moccasin - NO Rattle but still a Viper (Vibrate their tail)
    • Western Diamondback

The Bite

  • Snake bites are considered an emergency requiring immediate medical attention
  • Delayed or inadequate treatment may result in significant morbidity or even death
  • About 25% of venomous snake bites are dry bites- no envenomation (no venom is injected).  The snake just wants to get away.  They rather conserve their venom for food prey

First Aid

  • Keep the victim well hydrated (give plenty of liquids for the first 8 hrs.)
  • Have a Tetanus shot update if it has been more than 10 years since your last one.
  • Wound Care
    • Wash area with soap and water
    • Apply loose dressing to prevent infection
  • Immobilization by splint to limb
    • Promotes oxygen exchange
    • Slows down circulation and absorption
  • Transport to a health care facility immediately
  • Bring the vehicle to the patient (if possible) or carry patient to vehicle
  • Call the Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222 for instructions & antivenom availability
  • Do Not:
    • Try to capture the snake-a visual description of the snake is helpful
    • Apply Ice to the Site
      • Can cause frostbite
      • Increases the absorption of the venom into the blood
    • Cut Area or use Retractor Kit (Snake Bite Kit)
      • Removes less than 10% of the Venom
      • Increases the risk of infections and destroys muscle & nerve tissue
    • Apply a Tourniquet - Increases the risk of losing the limb
    • Apply Electric Shock
      • May cause more serious injuries
      • Does not deactivate venom
    • Perform a Fasciatomy - Not indicated in 99% of the cases