Some parts of the state faced heavy rainfall and flooding during Hurricane Florence, which forces snakes to higher ground. September also marks birthing season for copperhead snakes — one of six poisonous species found in the state.
“With the warmer weather, and even the rain just helps to concentrate [snakes] into areas of higher ground, which can tend to be around dwellings,” Dr. Henri Bianucci, a veterinarian in Mount Pleasant, S.C., told WJBF.
Physicians warned people to stay away from any snakes they encounter, adding that most people get bitten by trying to kill a snake.
“Just don’t handle the snakes. Don’t try to chase a snake down, that’s where really we see most of them,” John Walters, MD, chairman of the emergency department at Roper St. Francis Mount Pleasant (S.C.) Hospital, told WJBF.
ER physicians and veterinarians also agreed anyone bit by a venomous snake should seek medical treatment.
More articles on clinical leadership and iinfection control:
UCSF Benioff Children’s refuses to act on case of 6-month-old on life support
More patients are accepting infected organs to cut transplant wait: 4 things to know
Only 18% of physicians say value-based payments will improve care, survey finds
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.