If a snake bites...

Sri Lanka are host to a rich and diverse snake fauna of close to a hundred species, of which only a few(7) are venomous. Hence even though there are a reported high number of snake bites per year(around 50,000 if my memory serves me right), of these only about 100-200 people die due to snake bite. This is a relatively high burden and the outcome of some of these deaths could have been different if proper first aid was given at the initial stages. Snake bites occur frequently around Colombo too, in the suburbs so do not think this is restricted to the villages. Here are a little pointers on first aid treatment of a snake bite.

DO NOTS
-Do not panic
-Do not make any cut, scratch or incision at wound site
-Do not suck at the wound
-Do not use a conventional very tight constricting band or tourniquet
-Do not apply ice packs to the bitten area
-Do not drink alcohol, take herbal medicine or aspirin

DO
-Reassure
Calm the bitten person as far as possible, excitement causes the increased blood flow, letting the venom be quickly absorbed to give toxic effects. Say to the victim, "Most bites are by non-venomous snakes. Even if so, most of the time the venom if injected is hardly enough to be toxic. Effective Antivenom is available as a specific antidote."
-Remove all rings, bracelets from the bitten part of the body
Sometimes the bitten area may become swollen and blood flow will be obstructed by these leading to secondary problems.
-Wash the bitten area with soap and water
It neutralises part of the venom as also keeps other harmful agents out. Remember to get a tettanus jab if you haven't got one recently.
-Immobilise the bitten limb with a splint or sling and keep the limb below heart level
To minimise systemic absorption of venom.
-Get medical help as quick as possible
Transport the patient avoiding movement as safely and comfortably as possible.
-If in severe pain Paracetamol may be given in usual dose.
(do not use aspirin)
-If possible bring the dead snake for identification
Though not essential for the species diagnosis, the dead snake if available, is a confirmation to clinical findings. But be very careful to not be bitten again when trying to collect the snake.

Avoid snake bites too if you are in a very prevalent area by,
-being specially vigilant after rain, flooding, harvest also at night(use a torch)
-try to wear shoes/boots/long trousers
-frequently check houses for snakes(wattle and daub with thatched roofs)