Summer Is Snakebite Season, PWC Medical Center Warns

WOODBRIDGE, VA – Summer is snake bite season, Sentara Northern Virginia Medical Center is reminding residents.

Sentara Northern Virginia Medical Center traditionally sees an increase in snake bites during the summer months, the center said in a release, but warmer temperatures and changing climate patterns are causing cases to appear earlier in the season.

Snake bites occur most often while people are gardening, hiking, doing yard work or doing chores around the house, Sentara Chief Medical Officer Debra Lee said, according to the release.

Most of these bites are from non-venomous snakes, but there are several venomous species in the region whose bites can cause serious complications.

According to the Virginia Herpetological Society, the state has 3 types of venomous snakes, 2 of which can be found in Northern Virginia. (Keep an eye out for the Eastern Copperhead and the Timber Rattlesnake, NoVA residents!)

Sentara is reminding community members of what to do if they are bitten by a snake. First, get away from the snake to avoid being bitten again, the medical center advises. Then, if possible, keep the bite area immobilized to slow the spread of any venom. If possible, take a picture of the snake to help identify it later. (Do not try to capture the snake or bring it to the hospital.) Gently wash the bite area and seek immediate medical attention.

Do not apply a tourniquet, cut the wound, ice the wound or attempt to suck the venom out. These treatments are not helpful, Sentara says.

If you are bitten by a snake, you might experience pain and swelling near the bite, numbness or tingling, muscle weakness, rash, shortness of breath, or lightheadedness.

Sentara also cautions that not all snake bites leave fang marks, so if you suspect you might have been bitten, seek a medical evaluation.

For more information about snake bite prevention and treatment, contact your healthcare provider or local poison control center.