Medical experts are warning people that the high summer temperatures are bringing out the snakes.
Malcolm Mitchley of Johannesburg’s paramedic training academy, and a snake expert, says: “The boomslang’s bite can be fatal.
Medical experts are warning people that the high summer temperatures are bringing out the snakes.
Malcolm Mitchley of Johannesburg’s paramedic training academy, and a snake expert, says: “The boomslang’s bite can be fatal.
They are usually very timid and live in trees, and it is unusual for them to bite people. They usually only do so if they are handled or intimidated.
Prof Ken Boffard, of the Trauma Unit at the Netcare Milpark Hospital, says many people believe there is no serum for the boomslang, but in fact one is available from the South African Vaccine Producers.
South Africa has several venomous snakes including the Cape cobra, spitting cobra, puff and night adders, black and green mambas, stiletto snakes and others.
Boffard suggests that all bites be treated as a medical emergency as one can usually not be certain if the bite was from a venomous snake.
In addition, bites by snakes that are considered non-venomous can cause infection or allergic reaction. Mike Perry, a snake expert from African Reptiles and Venom, says: “Most snakebites tend to occur in the evenings, as this is when many types hunt and when people cannot see them and consequently stand on them.”
Perry advises people in the veld to protect their lower legs from snake bites. “I find it amazing that people take so many measures to protect themselves against hazards in the workplace, but in the bush they wear shorts, which provide them with no protection whatsoever.”
What to do for a snakebite •Get the person to a hospital or clinic as soon as possible.
•Keep the victim calm and quiet. Panic can help circulate the venom through the body more quickly.
•Immobilise the bitten area andkeep it below the heart.
•Avoid administering any pain killing or other medication unless irected to do so by a doctor.
•Do not allow the victim to eat or drink anything and especially not to drink alcohol.
•Be aware that only a doctor or nurse should administer the serum.
