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The ASF team works diligently to address the dire need for snakebite support in tropical climates. If you enjoy the articles below, please consider making a tax-deductible donation. Recurring or one-time donations, no matter the amount, equate to life-changing support for snakebite victims and their families. If there are any topics you’d like addressed, please email us. We always love the opportunity to educate.
How to Survive a Snakebite in the Wilderness
FIRST AND FOREMOST, DO NOT MAKE IT WORSE!
DO NOT MAKE A TOURNIQUET, DO NOT CUT AND SUCK, DO NOT APPLY THE SAWYER EXTRACTOR OR OTHER COMMERCIAL “SNAKEBITE KITS”, DO NOT ELECTROCUTE YOURSELF WITH A STUN GUN, AND DO NOT FOLLOW ANY STRANGE RECOMMENDATIONS YOU RECEIVE FROM OTHER HIKERS ON THE TRAIL. NO FIRST AID IS OFTEN LESS HARMFUL THAN BAD FIRST AID WHEN IT COMES TO SNAKEBITES!
How to Treat Snakebites for First Responders in the United States
Approximately 9,000 snakebite envenomations occur yearly in the United States. Most of these envenomations are due to pit vipers, including rattlesnakes, cottonmouths, and copperheads. Fortunately, due to rapid access to medical care, deaths are rare, with only 3 to 5 occurring nationwide each year. Our emergency medical system is the first link in the chain of treating patients. In comparison to many areas of the world, the U.S. has an advanced system of highly-trained EMTs and paramedics skilled in the prompt assessment, stabilization, and transport of critically ill patients.
Veterinary Antivenom Brands and How They Work
Many people ask about the antivenoms that are used for envenomations in dogs and cats, so here is your immunology lesson for the week.
What to Expect When You’re Expecting…. And Snakebitten
Snakebites can lead to serious consequences regardless of the victim's age or health, pregnant women face additional challenges due to the potential harm that venomous toxins can inflict on fetal development. It is crucial to address snakebite treatment promptly and efficiently to minimize risks.
Snake Antivenoms: Understanding Key Terms
Snakebite is a global health concern, and antivenoms are crucial in mitigating their impact. In this post, we'll unravel the complexities of snakebite antivenoms, breaking down key terms like monovalent, polyvalent, specific, paraspecific, and lyophilized to provide a clearer understanding.