Community & Business
2 March, 2025
Snake bites on the rise
HEALTH authorities are urging the public to stay alert for snake activity following a sharp rise in snake bite cases at hospital emergency departments in 2024, with Cairns having one of the highest numbers of snake bite presentations.
Emergency departments handled 15% more snake bites across the State last year compared to 2023 figures, going from 1,094 presentations to 1,257 in 2024.
In December 2024 alone, Queensland’s public hospital emergency departments recorded 160 presentations related to snake bites, representing the highest number recorded in a single month for all of 2024. This trend began early in 2024, with 159 presentations in January and 155 in February – a 35% increase on the same months in 2023.
Queensland is home to around 120 species of snakes, many of which possess venom, and some of which are very dangerous to humans and pets if bitten. The most dangerous snakes include brown snakes, taipans, red-bellied black snakes, death adders, and tiger snakes.
Toxicologist Dr Emma Maguire emphasised that avoiding snake bites is key to remaining safe.
“If you’re in an area where snakes might be found, it’s important not to surprise them – make some noise, and watch where you step or put your hands. Be sure to wear protective clothing such as boots and jeans,” she said.
“Don’t approach a snake. Leave it alone and call a professional snake catcher. Snakes will feel threatened if you try and move them and may bite.”
Dr Maguire warned that some of the most dangerous snake bites could cause very little pain at the bite site, in particular, this was seen with brown snake bites. She said this could make it easy for people to underestimate the seriousness of the injury.
“Even if the bite doesn’t hurt, it’s crucial to seek immediate help, as snake venom can have life-threatening effects,” Dr Maguire said.
“If you’re bitten by a snake, stay calm – and call an ambulance immediately.
“If a limb has been bitten, apply a firm bandage over the entire limb, and immobilise it. Avoid moving around or running as this will increase venom spread – just sit somewhere safe and wait for help to arrive.
“Do not try to catch the snake or bring it to the emergency department. We can still treat you effectively without definitively identifying the exact snake species.
“We will recommend antivenom treatment based on the geographical location where the bite occurred, and the clinical features of envenomation.
“Antivenom works to stop the progression of the venom – so the earlier we give it to the patient the better. It works best when given within six hours of the snakebite but is still beneficial and given later in some situations.
“If you are seriously envenomed, you may be in hospital for several days and occasionally even longer, particularly if you need treatment for complications like muscle breakdown, nerve weakness, or kidney damage.”
