Venomous snakes began to attack more often: Florida and Texas at risk

Photo: depositphotos.com

More than 1300 American children are exposed to snake bites, and every fourth case occurs in Florida or Texas, reveals a new study published in the journal Pediatrics.

In addition to Texas and Florida, the states with the highest level of snake bites are Georgia, Louisiana, North Carolina, Oklahoma and West Virginia.

“Any venomous snake can pose a risk in the areas of neurotoxic complications and blood clotting problems,” said lead study author Dr. Joanna Schulte, a medical epidemiologist. “Some children die, and delays in treatment may be one of the reasons.”

Schulte's team reviewed data from snakebite victims aged 18 and younger who were reported to poison control centers in the United States. According to the data, between 2000 and 2013, 18 snakebite cases were reported, about half of which were bites from venomous snakes. Two out of three victims were boys aged 700 years, the researchers say.

Data shows that copperhead snake bites have increased by 137% and bites from unknown venomous snakes have more than doubled. During the study period, 2 victims died.

Copperhead snake. Photo: depositphotos.com

Copperhead snakes bite humans more than any other snake species in the United States, according to research at North Carolina State University. But their poison is not so strong, and the case of a bite is rarely fatal.

Generally, rattlesnakes are considered the most venomous and are the most likely to cause death. Schulte noted that in Arizona and California, the majority of reported bites are from rattlesnakes.

According to the study, antidote therapy was used in 26% cases.

Many emergency departments have anti-poisons such as CroFab and Anavip. But the hospital bills $ 100 thousand or more for the use of the antidote, so you need to make sure that you really need the antidote before use. This will help you bite marks and physical symptoms.

Dr. Robert Glatter, an ambulance doctor at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York, said that those who have pain, need swelling, abnormally low blood pressure, or seizures need treatment.

“Remain calm if you are bitten by a snake and there is another person nearby. Take a photo of the snake if possible,” said Glatter, who was not associated with the study. A photograph can help determine the type of snake and whether it is venomous. He also warned against trying to suck out the venom from the bite or catch the snake.

Glatter remarked that lifestyle changes in the United States increased the chances of getting a snakebite.

“With extensive urbanization and residential encroachment into the natural habitats of snakes and other reptiles, children playing outdoors are at greater risk of encountering and being bitten by a snake,” Glatter said.

Parents should ensure that children wear long pants and boots when they play in tall grass, as well as during hikes, advise Glatter and Schulte.

“Tell your children to stay away from snakes if they see them in the woods and not try to catch them,” Glatter said. “If they see a snake near them, they need to stop and let the crawling reptile pass without interfering with its movement.”

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