Table of Contents
If you are on safari in Kenya and encounter a snakebite emergency, knowing the right first aid steps can be life-saving. The following guide is based on expert advice from Bio-Ken Snake Farm(archived site here), a leading herpetology research center in Kenya specializing in snake conservation and venom research. This guide covers immediate first aid actions, what to do if venom gets into the eyes, post-treatment recovery, and practical safety tips to prevent snake encounters while in the bush.
Immediate Steps for a Snakebite Emergency #
Most Important! #
- Seek medical help immediately – time is critical, so do not delay getting to a hospital.
- DO NOT apply a tourniquet, cut the wound, apply ice, or attempt to suck out venom – these outdated methods do more harm than good.
- DO NOT administer unprescribed medications, alcohol, or traditional herbal remedies as they can worsen symptoms.
- Remain calm and keep the bitten person as still as possible to slow the spread of venom.
First Aid for Snakebite in the Field #
Ensure Safety First #
- If the snake is dead, carefully place it in a secure container to help doctors identify the species.
- If the snake has disappeared, do not waste time looking for it. Instead, focus on transporting the patient to a hospital.
- Move the patient and onlookers away from the danger area to prevent further bites.
Keep the Patient Calm and Immobilized #
- Reassure the patient to prevent panic, which can accelerate venom circulation.
- Remove any tight items (rings, watches, clothing, shoes) near the bite site to prevent constriction as swelling increases.
- Immobilize the affected limb:
- If bitten on the arm, use a sling.
- If bitten on the leg, splint the limb or gently tie both legs together to minimize movement.
- If possible, carry the patient on a stretcher to further limit motion.
Monitor the Patient’s Condition #
- Keep watch for symptoms such as dizziness, sweating, nausea, difficulty breathing, or swelling.
- If pain is severe, give paracetamol (DO NOT give aspirin or ibuprofen, as they can worsen bleeding).
- If the patient faints due to low blood pressure, elevate their legs slightly until they regain consciousness.
- If breathing stops due to paralysis, immediately perform mouth-to-mouth resuscitation until professional medical help arrives.
Provide Critical Information to Doctors #
- Ask the patient important details about the bite to pass on to the medical team:
- Did they see the snake? Describe its color and size.
- Did the snake rear up, spread a hood, or spit? These behaviors indicate a cobra.
- Did the snake make any sound? Puff Adders hiss loudly.
- Where and how did the bite happen? (e.g., in tall grass, while climbing a tree, in water, indoors).
- When did the bite occur? Time since the bite is crucial in determining treatment.
- Did the patient take any medication, alcohol, or herbal remedies before or after the bite? This can affect medical treatment.
Emergency Contact for Snakebites in Kenya #
For expert advice in a snakebite emergency, contact Bio-Ken Snake Farm in Watamu, Kenya:
📞 +254 718 290324
First Aid for Venom in the Eyes #
Some snakes, such as spitting cobras, can spray venom into the eyes, causing intense pain and potential vision damage.
Steps to Take Immediately #
- Flush the eyes immediately with plenty of water or milk for at least 20 minutes.
- If no clean water is available, fresh urine can be used in emergencies (for the eyes only).
- Rinse the mouth and wash the face, neck, and any exposed skin to prevent venom from spreading.
- Change clothing if it is contaminated with venom.
Manage Symptoms #
- The patient will experience excessive tearing, nasal discharge, and increased saliva. Encourage them to:
- Blow their nose gently to clear venom.
- Spit out excess saliva instead of swallowing.
- Avoid rubbing their eyes, as this can worsen irritation.
Seek Medical Attention #
- Even if symptoms subside, the patient must see a doctor to check for corneal damage.
- Protect the eyes from bright light by wearing sunglasses or a hat, as light will be painful.
Post-Treatment Recovery #
- Drink plenty of fluids to help the kidneys flush out toxins.
- If the patient struggles to urinate or experiences other complications, return to the doctor immediately.
- Mild dizziness, fatigue, or fainting spells are common after a bite—rest is essential.
- If the bite caused tissue damage, proper wound care is crucial to prevent infection and permanent disability.
- Schedule regular follow-up visits with a doctor to monitor healing progress.
Living Safely with Snakes in Kenya #
Kenya is home to over 100 snake species, most of which are harmless. However, venomous snakes do exist, so taking basic precautions can significantly reduce the risk of snake encounters.
Safety in the Home #
- Avoid keeping livestock indoors, especially chickens, as they attract snakes.
- Store food in secure containers to prevent rodents, which in turn attract snakes.
- Raise beds above floor level and use mosquito nets to protect against nocturnal encounters.
Safety Around Your Compound #
- Keep surroundings clean—remove woodpiles, trash heaps, and overgrown grass.
- Trim bushes and avoid overhanging trees near the house.
- Always use a flashlight at night when walking outside.
- Wear shoes, especially in the rainy season, as rising water forces snakes to higher ground.
- Pay attention to alarm calls from domestic animals, as they often sense snakes before humans do.
Safety in the Bush #
- Watch your step—avoid walking blindly through tall grass, thick leaves, or rocky areas.
- Lift rocks and logs from the far side first, allowing hidden creatures to escape away from you.
- Do not put hands or feet into holes or crevices without checking first.
- When clearing vegetation, scan first before grabbing plants to avoid surprising hidden snakes.
Dealing with Dangerous Snakes #
- Learn to identify venomous species in Kenya by consulting local experts, museums, or Bio-Ken Snake Farm.
- Do not kill every snake you see—most are harmless and help control pests.
- If a snake is found in your compound, observe from a distance and allow it to leave naturally.
- If a snake enters your home, use a long stick to guide it out or call a professional handler.
- Avoid unnecessary confrontations—if you’re close enough to kill a snake, you’re close enough to get bitten.
Antivenom and Emergency Preparedness #
- Antivenom is the only effective treatment for life-threatening snakebites.
- Check in advance if local hospitals stock antivenom—many rural clinics do not due to cost and storage issues.
- If snakebites are common in your area, consider a community effort to purchase and store antivenom.
- Contact your local Health Department to find out where to obtain the correct antivenom for your region.
Final Thoughts #
Being in a snake-prone area does not mean you have to live in fear. With knowledge, preparation, and proper precautions, you can safely coexist with Kenya’s snakes. By understanding snake behavior, taking preventative measures, and knowing how to respond in an emergency, both human safety and wildlife conservation can be ensured.
Read about snakes in Masai Mara
