Since the beginning of the flood season in 2005, Can Tho Central General Hospital has successfully treated 6 patients who were bitten by green tree vipers and Malayan pit vipers using specific antivenom serum.
According to preliminary statistics, the Mekong Delta region is home to approximately 32 species of venomous snakes out of a total of 140 snake species. Treating snake bites with antivenom serum is an effective method for neutralizing snake venom toxins in the bloodstream, allowing patients to recover from acute poisoning more quickly.
Previously, before the introduction of specific antivenom serum, victims of snake bites were often treated symptomatically, resulting in prolonged treatment times, numerous complications, and low success rates.
Recently, Mrs. Nguyen Thi Chinh, 54, from Binh Minh District (Vinh Long), was bitten by a green tree viper and was brought to the emergency department in a state of swelling, extensive subcutaneous hemorrhaging, cyanosis, and signs of cardiovascular collapse. The patient was quickly stabilized with respiratory support using a ventilator. The doctors administered 7 vials of antivenom for green tree viper bites along with other supportive treatments. After 15 days, Mrs. Chinh was discharged from the hospital. |
Currently, there are two types of specific antivenom vaccines produced by Nha Trang Vaccine Institute that have enabled the Dong Tam Medicinal Snake Farm (Military Region 9) and several hospitals in the region to effectively treat individuals bitten by venomous snakes. Can Tho Central General Hospital has both types of specific antivenom serums for the venom of the Malayan pit viper and the green tree viper.
In addition to advanced treatment efforts, the hospital also conducts training for local communities on treating venomous snake bites with specific antivenom serum to promptly save residents affected by snake bites.
Tran Khanh Linh
