Snake bite incidents rise in Venezuela and Mexico due to weather

In Venezuela, approximately 8,000 snake bites are recorded annually, according to Luis Contreras, a specialist with the National Institute of Aquatic Spaces (INEA). Of these cases, roughly 6,000—or 75%—are diagnosed as severe envenomation. The states of Barinas and Zulia report the highest frequencies, with Barinas seeing about 1,200 cases and Zulia approximately 950 cases per year.

In San Juan del Río, Mexico, authorities have noted an increase in snake sightings during the rainy season. Fernando Vázquez Viveros, commander of the Volunteer Firefighters, explained that heavy rainfall can wash snakes from drains and other habitats into residential areas. He urged citizens not to attack or attempt to capture the animals themselves, as defensive reactions increase the risk of bites, and instead advised contacting emergency services for safe relocation.