Introduction
Snakebite is a reasonably common problem, so various antidotes are being developed. Despite the development of antidotes, which very often save lives, venomous snake bites can still be fatal. Bites from venomous snakes can cause paralysis, leading to respiratory arrest. Therefore, it is undoubtedly important to attach great importance to the development of antidotes.
Discussion
Poisonous snakes occupy second place among forest pests. World Health Organization estimates that about 2.5 million people worldwide suffer from the bite of poisonous reptiles every year, and at least 20 thousand cases end in death (Snakebite envenoming, n.d.). This often happens in Asia, Africa, and Latin America, but dangerous snakes live on all continents.
The severity of the consequences depends on the type of poison and the area affected. Still, the main problem is that it is necessary to accurately determine the type of snake for the correct selection of antidotes, which is often tricky. For example, to cure a cobra bite and choose the proper antidote, the doctors need to know the kind of snake. Even individuals living in two neighboring forests can differ significantly in the characteristics of the poison due to different living conditions and diets.
Scientists make dangerous snakes bite animals, usually horses, to create an antidote. After a bite, the animal’s immunity begins to produce antibodies to the poison that has entered the body (Snakebite Envenoming, n.d.). Researchers extract these antibodies from the blood and use them for snake venom treatment. Snakes are different, so an appropriate antidote is used against each bite.
Conclusion
In conclusion, governmental administrations need to understand the importance of the snakebite antidote sponsoring. Also very important is the process of studying snake habitats. Therefore, it is vital to encourage scientific researchers, physicians, national and regional health authorities, and international and local organizations to work together. The cooperation can help to improve the availability of reliable epidemiological data on snake bites and the regulatory control of antitoxins and their distribution policy.
Reference
Snakebite envenoming. (n.d.). World Health Organization. Web.