TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — While it may be the “Year of the Snake,” seeing one may not bring good fortune, as the Centers for Disease Control estimates 1,000 citizens are bitten by poisonous snakes annually.
The peak period for deadly snakebites is this weekend’s Tomb Sweeping Festival, when people may venture into the mountains and clear brush or branches, disturbing the habitat of vipers. The CDC reminds the public to be vigilant and wear pants, boots, and long shirts, per Storm Media.
The public is also reminded not to turn over large stones or hollow tree branches. People should avoid cool and dark places where snakes are typically found.
Taiwan’s most common venomous snakes include the Taiwanese habu (龜殼花), bamboo viper, and hundred pacer, which contain hemorrhagic venom. Meanwhile, the cobra and the Taiwanese krait have neurotoxic venom, while the Russell’s viper has both.
An injection of antivenom serum can treat snakebites. The CDC produces and supplies anti-venom to 190 medical hospitals across Taiwan for emergency use.
The public can check reserves at medical institutions by visiting the website. It is not advised to purchase anti-venom or drugs of unknown origin online.
The CDC said to remember the "five do's and five don'ts" if bitten by a snake. The “five do's” include: treat the wounds; remember the snake's appearance; take off jewelry to prevent swelling; apply a bandage to the upper edge of the wound to slow the spread of venom; and seek medical attention.
The “five don'ts” include: do not cut the wound; do not suck out the venom with your mouth; do not apply ice to avoid tissue necrosis; do not drink alcohol or stimulating beverages that accelerate the venom's effect; and do not delay medical treatment.
