What to do… when bitten by a venomous animal

It’s raining again. Frequent rain like this not only risks catching a cold but also poses a danger you might not have expected or been cautious about, which is the threat from venomous animals during the rainy season. These animals usually live in the soil or hidden places. When it rains frequently causing flooding in their habitats, these venomous animals often come up to the ground surface. If you happen to be bitten by these animals, what should you do? Let’s find out.

Most first aid is aimed at reducing localized pain after being poisoned by these animals, and each type has different treatment methods.

If you are bitten by a “scorpion”

1. Clean the bitten area with clean water.
2. Immediately apply a cold compress for about 10 minutes each time to reduce localized swelling. If there is pain, you can take painkillers such as paracetamol.
3. Seek proper treatment at a nearby medical facility, especially if there are other complications such as chest tightness or severe allergic reactions. Go to the hospital immediately or call an ambulance for the patient’s safety.

If you are bitten by a “centipede”

1. Clean the bitten area with clean water.
2. Apply a warm compress for about 10 minutes each time to reduce localized swelling. If there is pain, you can take painkillers such as paracetamol.
3. Seek proper treatment at a nearby medical facility, especially if there are other complications such as chest tightness or severe allergic reactions. Go to the hospital immediately or call an ambulance for the patient’s safety.

If you are bitten by a “snake”

• Immediately clean the wound thoroughly. Do not cut the wound or suck the blood out of the wound under any circumstances.
• Do not take painkillers containing aspirin as it can enhance the effect of the snake venom.
• Try to stay still and move as little as possible.
• Use an elastic bandage or clean cloth to wrap the bitten limb, wrapping from the distal part toward the bite wound, and immobilize it with a splint to reduce movement of the bitten area.
• Do not apply a tourniquet as improper use may cause more harm.
• Seek immediate treatment at the nearest hospital.
• Bring the dead snake with you if possible.