'Don't try to kill it': Doctors issue dire snake warning ahead of summer months
Doctors are issuing a dire warning for snakes and spiders ahead of the summer.
With everything creepy crawly and slithery coming out of hibernation as the weather warms up, NSW Health is reminding people to be careful and to pack a First Aid kit.
They are also warning anyone who encounters snakes to avoid trying to kill them.
Toxicology expert Geoff Isbister from Newcastle’s Calvary Mater Hospital said in a statement snake bites traditionally increase in spring ahead of a peak in late December and January.
He added anyone camping or hiking to wear long pants and boots if in an area with snakes.
“Particularly if holidaying in a regional area and especially while camping, try to avoid being bitten in the first place by not interfering with snakes,” Dr Isbister said.
“Also ensure you are prepared and know what to do. If a person is bitten by a snake or spider, keep them rested and still, call an ambulance and use an elasticised bandage on the affected area.
“Tourniquets should not be applied, and the bite site should not be cut or sucked. Move slowly away from the snake and don’t try and kill it.”
He added symptoms from snake bites include nausea, vomiting and headaches.
If someone’s bitten by a brown snake, they could collapse and require “cardiopulmonary resuscitation”, Dr Isbister said.
NSW Health advised when it comes to arachnids, people need to be aware of funnel web and redback spiders.
Funnel web bites should be treated like snake bites – left untouched and covered with a bandage until help arrives.
Redbacks are typically found in dark and dry places but can also be found in clothing items left outside including helmets and shoes.
However, their bites aren’t life-threatening and anyone bitten by a redback should wash the area and contact NSW Poisons Information Centre.
