Healthline Blogs
Dr. Paul Auerbach is the world's leading outdoor health expert. His blog offers tips on outdoor safety and advice on how to handle wilderness emergencies.
See all posts »Indian National Snakebite Conference
photo of Bob Norris with king cobra by Ian Simpson
Ian Simpson of the World Health Organization (WHO) Snakebite Treatment Group reports that the Conference was a fruitful event, as the participants developed an evidence-based protocol for both first aid and treatment of venomous snake bites, which was heretofore lacking in a country that witnesses a large number of bites with significant morbidity (serious medical effects) and mortality (death). The protocol stresses reassurance, immobilization of the bitten body part without compression or tourniquets, and prompt transport to a location where antivenom can be administered. It was also recommended that adrenalin (epinephrine) be readily available for intramuscular injection in the event of an allergic reaction to antivenom.
For a country with one billion people and the highest snakebite mortality in the world, the conference was a breakthrough. The government of India and the WHO are reviewing the protocol for implementation in India. Literature will be sent to hospitals with treatment protocols, a booklet on first aid techniques, a booklet for doctors on "Snakes of Medical Significance," and posters to aid in snake identification and first aid.
-
- 1
-
About the Author
Recent Blog Posts
-
Feb 11, 2013
Topical Ivermectin Lotion for Treating Head Lice -
Feb 04, 2013
Public Health Interventions and Snowmobile Fatality Rates -
Jan 28, 2013
Physician Warnings for Persons with Impairments