One important characteristic to remember about venomous snakes in Papua New Guinea, is that they are all ground dwellers.
So if these snakes live on the ground and not in the trees, this means that 80 percent of the bites occur on the feet or ankle.
Thus, it is advisable to wear shoes or boots in order to prevent being vulnerable to these bites.
In its aim to reduce snakebites, Charles Campbell Toxinology Centre has been appealing to charities, foundation, shoe manufactures, shipping companies to assist by putting shoes on Papua New Guinean feet.
Remember: 80 percent of venomous snakebites occur below the knee.
According to Diana Barr, Technical Support Officer with Australian Venom Research Unit (CCTC), many victims of venomous snake bites never even see the snake that bit them.
Speaking with Loop PNG Lifestyle, she said:
“The characteristic two puncture marks that we all associate with venomous snakebite are not always present in a victim. Sometimes, there may be only a single tiny scratch which could easily have been caused by a twig or thorn. Depending on the species of snake, symptoms can occur soon after the bite, that is; within minutes or take up to several hours to develop.
“Symptoms range from aches, pain, vomiting and bleeding, to breathing difficulties, collapse and paralysis. Anyone who suspects that they have been bitten by a venomous one, should treat the bite accordingly (see below) and attend a medical faculty immediately for examination and observation.”
What to do if bitten by a deadly snake:
Most importantly, move away from the snake and do not try to catch or kill it. This will reduce the risk of being bitten again. Bandage the entire bitten limb firmly (Make the bandages out of your shirt/dress), apply a splint (use a branch) and get to a health centre as soon as possible. Do not walk or move if possible (get someone to help or carry you).
Do not panic. Do not cute the bite site. Do not apply a tourniquet. Do not seek traditional healing methods.
This is the final part of the three-part article.
Related article: http://www.looppng.com/lifestyle/png%E2%80%99s-venomous-snakes-51380