Snakebite emergency care: Rapid hospital arrival critical for survival

Medical experts and recent research emphasize that rapid hospital arrival is critical following a snakebite to prevent death and permanent tissue damage. A study published in the journal ‘Cureus’ by researchers at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences found a significant correlation between delayed treatment and mortality. In the study, patients who arrived at the hospital within 6 hours had a 7% mortality rate, whereas those arriving between 18 and 24 hours faced a 75% mortality rate.

To manage a snakebite before reaching medical professionals, experts recommend keeping the victim calm and minimizing movement to slow the spread of venom. The bitten area should be kept below the level of the heart. It is also advised to remove tight clothing, rings, or watches to accommodate potential swelling.

Crucially, dangerous folk remedies—such as cutting the wound, attempting to suck out venom by mouth, or applying herbs—should be strictly avoided as they increase the risk of infection and delay life-saving care. In South Korea, the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency notes that most snakebite incidents occur between July and September, primarily involving viper species. Medical treatment typically involves antivenom, fluid therapy, and monitoring for organ function or blood clotting issues.