Snakebite Envenoming

Snakebite envenoming is the injury that results when a venomous snake bites a person and injects venom, most often affecting the hands, arms, or legs. A bite typically leaves two puncture wounds from the snake's fangs, and when venom is injected it can cause redness, swelling, and severe pain that may take up to an hour to fully develop, along with symptoms such as vomiting, blurred vision, and tingling of the limbs. Depending on the venom involved, effects can include abnormal bleeding and kidney failure, and the injury is recognized by the World Health Organization as a neglected tropical health problem given its disproportionate impact on rural communities with limited access to treatment.