This page should be a complete waste of space because most cases of snake-bite result from humans intentionally disturbing and threatening a snake. Venomous snakes do not enjoy biting people; they react to a perceived serious threat to their own safety. Most snakes will flee, undetected; when flight is not possible, they will warn the intruder by hissing or threat displays, such as rearing up and flattening the neck. Nobody should attempt to handle any animals of which he or she is not absolutely certain, both in terms of what it is and how dangerous it might be. Admire it from a safe distance, which may be as much as several meters in the case of spitting cobras. The best prevention of snake-bite is to watch carefully where you put your feet and hands and to give snakes the space they deserve.

First-aid treatment for snake-bites

Traditional first-aid methods for bites from venomous snakes were to apply a tourniquet or to cut into the bite site. These practices are now seriously discredited and maybe more dangerous than the bite itself. At present, medical professionals working with snake-bite victims agree that the best emergency treatment is to limit the blood flow from the bite site to the rest of the body while getting the patient to hospital.

First and foremost, the victim should try to relax. Take relief from the facts that most snakes are not venomous and that many venomous snakes do not always inject venom with defensive bites.

Remember what kind of snake bit you. Bring this book with you to the hospital and point out the snake. Do not try to kill the snake and certainly do not bring it
along alive.

Wash the bite site with clean water to avoid infection.

To slow the flow of blood from the bite, the affected body part should be tightly wrapped with a long elastic bandage (the type normally used to support sprained ankles, available at any good pharmacy). If such a bandage is not available, any strip of cloth will do in an emergency. Tight elastic bandages restrict blood flow without completely cutting off the circulation, which can result in tissue destruction. If the toes or fingers turn blue, the bandage is too tight. You should be able, just, to insert a finger under the bandage. Not only the bite site itself, but also a good part of the limb above and below the bite site should be wrapped. Fit a splint to further immobilize the bite site. Remove any rings, bracelets or wristwatches from the bitten limb, as swelling may occur.

Next, the victim should be transported to hospital as soon as possible without exerting the person. Transport by car is best. If no roads or vehicles are available, carry the victim or walk slowly; do not run. If in a national park, ask an official to send a radio message to the hospital.

Watch the victim closely for signs of breathing difficulties, as the venom of some snakes impairs respiration. Be prepared to give artificial respiration if necessary. If the victim is barely conscious, place him on his side to ease breathing and prevent choking if he vomits. At the hospital, trained professionals will administer the best possible treatment.

Two of the three cobra species in the region have the ability to spit venom into the eyes of an attacker. Their aim is amazingly accurate and they can easily reach 2m. The venom will cause temporary blindness. Wash the eyes immediately with clean water and there will not be any serious results. It is prudent to regard all cobras as spitters and keep more than 2m away.

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