Snake bites – Dos and Don’ts

It is difficult for the common man to identify venomous snakes. If one encounters a snake, he or she must proceed with caution. Pollution and human encroachments are the main reasons for the rise in the number of snake attacks in Goa. 

Charan Dessai from 'Study and Awareness of Wildlife and Environment' (SAWE) an NGO said that victims often panic after being bitten by snakes, but remaining calm and following a few simple do's and don’ts mentioned below are critical to tackle the situation.

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• After a snake bite, do not panic!
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• Call an ambulance to take the patient to the nearest hospital.
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• The victim should be encouraged to be still and move as little as possible.
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• The patient has to adhere to a vegetarian diet for a quick recovery and be cautious about the source of drinking water as the venom remains in his/her blood.
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• Do not attempt to suck the venom out
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• Do not burn or cut the wound.

In order to raise awareness about snake venom, Charan believes that people should be informed about the availability of 'anti-venom' at primary health centres. The NGO frequently conducts awareness seminars in schools and colleges in Goa.

For your own safety here is a list of snake bite treatment centres in Goa

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• Goa Medical College (GMC), Bambolim
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• Hospicio, Margao
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• Asilo, Mapusa

Primary Health Centres (PHCs) usually keep stock of Anti-Snake Venom (ASN).

Destruction of  habitats and pollution force these creatures into habitation. Snakes bite only out of fear in self-defence. With an escalation in land development, snake bites are become more and more common as these creatures are dislodged from their natural homes.