The Mistake You Must Avoid After a Snake Bite - and What Can Actually Save Lives

With the rise in venomous reptile activity in summer, the Galilee Medical Center is reinforcing guidelines for snake bites: calm the victim, immobilize the bitten limb, and quickly evacuate to a hospital. They warn against cutting, sucking venom, applying a tourniquet, or capturing the snake.

With the increase in venomous reptile activity during the summer season, the Galilee Medical Center is reinforcing guidelines for the public in case of a snake bite. Dr. Khaled Atallah, director of the emergency department, explains that the first step is to calm the victim, lay them down for complete rest, and prevent movement of the bitten limb to slow the spread of venom. Simultaneously, medical assistance should be called and the victim should be quickly evacuated to the hospital. It is recommended to photograph the snake from a safe distance for identification. Dr. Atallah warns against common mistakes: cutting the bite site, sucking the venom, applying a tourniquet, or attempting to capture the snake – these actions are life-threatening. The center emphasizes that medical treatment should be sought even in the absence of immediate symptoms.

The Mistake You Must Avoid After a Snake Bite - and What Can Actually Save Lives