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Viper bites
Viper bites are rarely fatal. Typical symptoms include a local bite mark, localized swelling close to the bite site together with systemic symptoms such as nausea.
First aid
- Immobilize the affected limb
- Corticosteroid containing “viper-tablets” are not routinely recommended
- A doctor should be consulted in all cases of suspected viper bite
Seek medical advice quickly if the bitten subject is
- symptomatic
- less than 15 years old (even if not symptomatic)
- pregnant
- elderly or suffering from a previous medical condition
- if the bite site is located in the head or neck area
- if the subject doesn’t have a valid tetanus vaccination