Floods don’t just ruin roads and lawns — they also relocate snakes. In Sindh, rural areas become impromptu snake condos. Suddenly, snakes in the flood show up in homes and fields, turning daily life into a risky encounter.
Snake bites are serious business. If left untreated, they can kill. The predominant type of envenomation in Sindh is vasculotoxic, usually from vipers. This venom interferes with blood clotting and circulation, which can lead to bleeding and organ damage. However, with a bit of knowledge, fast action, and a 1122 ambulance, the story can change from “oh no” to “back in business.”
Not every bite is a death sentence. In fact, venomous snakes typically leave 1–2 deep fang marks, swelling that spreads quickly, and sometimes paralysis or bleeding. On the other hand, non-venomous snakes usually leave only a few small teeth marks. Therefore, spotting the difference matters, while panicking never helps.
Unfortunately, in rural Sindh, many victims first turn to traditional remedies. As a result, they lose precious hours before reaching proper treatment.
When bitten, think first and freak out second — or better yet, never.
✅ Do this:
❌ Don’t:
Once at the hospital, doctors follow ABCDE protocols (Airway, Breathing, Circulation, Disability, Exposure/Environment). Moreover, lab tests like the 20-minute whole blood clotting test (20WBCT) help determine whether anti-snake venom (ASV) is needed.
ASV is the only antidote that works. It is given intravenously, children receive the same dose as adults, and careful monitoring prevents complications. The good news is that ASV is stocked and used in Sindh hospitals. However, the bad news is that accessibility and timely arrival remain challenges — especially in flood-hit areas where every hour counts.
Consequently, education and awareness are essential, because delays can turn a near-miss into a tragedy.
Floods bring obvious dangers: submerged roads, stranded families, and power outages. Yet, some threats are silent, sliding through ankle-deep water — venomous snakes are among the most dangerous of these.
Therefore, the takeaway is simple:
If symptoms appear after a bite, call 1122 immediately. On the other hand, if no major signs appear, call 1123 for guidance.
In Sindh, survival isn’t just luck. It’s knowing when to run, when to stay calm, and when to let professionals handle the snakes.
