During the summer months, most people spend time outdoors, but it also carries a risk of snake bites. According to Martin Norberg, a healthcare professional at Södersjukhuset, an increasing number of people are seeking medical care for snake bites. During vacation times, most people want to be outdoors and enjoy the lovely summer weather. However, there is an elevated risk associated with being outdoors, which is evident this year.
A 900 percent increase during summer:
In an interview with TV4’s Nyhetsmorgon, Martin Norberg, a doctor at the emergency department of Södersjukhuset, explains what to be cautious of during the warm summer months when the healthcare system faces high demand.
According to Norberg, the reason for emergency care visits due to snake bites has increased by 900 percent.
“It is clear that both children and adults are experiencing an increase in snake bites. Approximately 300 patients per year in Sweden. Snake bites can be dangerous, but very few people die in Sweden due to the effective administration of antivenom,” he says.
At the same time, Norberg is clear in his message about what to do if one is unfortunate enough to be bitten by a snake.
“If you are bitten by a snake, you should go to the hospital,” he says.
However, if you do not have any symptoms or are certain that you have not been bitten by a snake, it is not necessary to visit an emergency department. He explains that it is not uncommon for people to go there believing they have been bitten, but that is not always the case.
What to do if you are bitten by a snake:
The only venomous snake naturally found in Sweden is the adder (Vipera berus). Adders are generally not aggressive and will not attack unless directly stepped on. However, accidents can happen. Many snakebite victims experience no symptoms, most likely because no venom was injected. The severity of your symptoms can depend on the location of the bite on your body. If you are bitten by a snake, it is essential to seek medical help at a hospital as soon as possible. In addition to that, there are other measures you should take, according to 1177 (Swedish healthcare website):
1. Stay as still as possible. If venom has been injected into your body, it will spread faster if you move.
2. If you have been bitten on, for example, an arm, try to keep it elevated.
3. The area around the bite often swells. Therefore, remove items like shoes, rings, and watches.
4. Do not touch or manipulate the area where you have been bitten. Do not attempt to suck out the venom, apply cold or heat. These actions can worsen the situation.
Please note that these guidelines are specific to Sweden and the information provided here may not be applicable to other regions or countries with different snake species.
