Snake bites
Introduction
A snake will sometimes bite in self-defence if disturbed or provoked.
Most snake bites occur when someone accidentally steps on a snake while walking in the countryside.
Some snakes are venomous and can inject venom containing toxins as they bite. A bite from a venomous snake is a medical emergency because it can be deadly if not treated quickly.
In the UK, adders (see photo) are the only venomous snakes found in the wild.
People also keep foreign (exotic) venomous snakes, sometimes illegally.
Exotic snakes have been known to bite while being handled carelessly, or when they escape from their cages.
There's also a risk of being bitten while travelling abroad to tropical countries.
This page covers:
Treatment
Prevention
Adder or grass snake?
How common are snake bites?
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Nov 2016
Introduction
Find out what to do if you or someone you're with is bitten by a venomous snake, such as an adder or an exotic species.
What to do after a snake bite
Immediately after being bitten by a snake you should: remain calm and don't panic snake bites, particularly those that occur in the UK, usually aren't serious and are only very rarely deadly
Symptoms of snake bites
Venomous snakes can sometimes bite without injecting venom. This is called a "dry bite", and it causes mild pain from the snake's teeth puncturing the skin as well as anxiety . If there are no o
Preventing snake bites
Follow the advice listed below if you're in an area where venomous snakes are found: look out for warning notices on heaths and commons wear boots and long trousers never pick up a snake, eve
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