Since May, the city’s weather has become increasingly hot and humid, ushering in the high season for snake activity. As snake sightings become more frequent, reports of snakebite incidents have risen as well.

Official statistics show that Guangdong Province is home to 93 snake species, among which 33 are venomous. The most common include bamboo pit vipers, many-banded kraits, cobras, king cobras and Chinese pit vipers.

What to do if bitten by a snake

The most effective treatment for a snake bite is to receive professional medical care at a hospital as soon as possible. Before that, it is recommended to take the following measures:

● Rinse the wound repeatedly with clean running water, in order to reduce as much snake venom as possible.

● Closely monitor the victim’s breathing, consciousness and overall condition.

● Try to remember the appearance of the snake, or take a photo if it’s safe to do so, to help doctors identify the species and administer the correct anti-venom.

● Perform only non-invasive first aid at the scene. Seek immediate medical attention without delay.

● Early anti-venom administration greatly influences prognosis. It is recommended to call the emergency hotline (120) promptly, or transport the patient carefully using a suitable vehicle while minimizing movement.

Hospitals offering anti-venom treatment

● Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital

● The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital

● Shenzhen University General Hospital

● Luohu District Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital

● Yantian District People’s Hospital

● Beijing University of Chinese Medicine Shenzhen Hospital

● Longhua District People’s Hospital

● Bao’an District Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital

● Shenzhen Pingle Orthopedic Hospital (Shenzhen Pingshan Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital)‌

● The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University

● Kuichong People’s Hospital