Snakebite: what to do, and what never to do

What to do - Stay calm, and keep the person calm. Move away from the snake; do not try to catch or kill it. - Keep the person as still as possible. Do not move the bitten arm or leg; a stick or something firm can be tied loosely alongside it to keep it still. - Take off or loosen rings, bangles, watches, anklets and tight clothing; the limb may swell. - Do not let the person walk; carry them or take them by vehicle, as fast as possible, to the upazila health complex or district hospital. For an ambulance, 999. - Remember when the bite happened and what the snake looked like, or take a photo from a safe distance, only if it causes no delay.

What never to do - No ojha, kabiraj, charms or herbs. The only treatment for venom is antivenom, and it is given only in hospital. - Do not tie a tight rope or cloth band; it can cut off the blood to the limb and do serious harm. - Do not cut the bite, suck it or burn it. - Do not put ice, chemicals or anything else on it. - Do not wait for symptoms. Many snakes are not venomous, but it is hard to tell which; so go to hospital after every bite.

Stay safe - Take a torch when you go out at night; wear shoes or boots in fields and bushes. - Sleep on a bed or a raised cot rather than the floor, with the mosquito net tucked in. - Clear bushes, long grass and heaps of straw or firewood away from the house. - Do not put a bare hand into holes or heaps.

A doctor by phone: Shasthya Batayon 16263. Read this page aloud to the whole family, especially those who work in the fields.