What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Naja Nivea Snake Bite
• Yellow Cobra Snake Bite

What is Cape Cobra Snake Bite? (Definition/Background Information)

• The Cape cobra (Naja nivea) is a highly venomous and dangerous snake that is distributed in south sub-Saharan Africa that includes the countries of Botswana, Lesotho, Namibia, and South Africa. The reptile belongs to the Elapidae family (genus Naja or cobra), which generally includes slender and swift moving snakes
• This slightly flattened and relatively slender-bodied snake can grow from 4 feet to over 6 feet in length. The snake’s head is flat and broad with a rounded snout and medium-sized eyes; the head and neck are slightly distinct from each other. Like most cobras, the head and neck of the Cape cobra can spread into a long hood
• The snake has a glossy body, and the color and pattern on the snake may change considerably from one geographical region to another. It is usually red-brown or shades of yellow, but rarely seen in black too. The underbelly of the snake is usually much lighter than the back color; neck bands may be seen on younger snakes that disappear as the snake gets older
• The snake is terrestrial and feeds on frogs, small mammals (rodents), birds (especially weaver birds), and other snakes. It prefers to hunt during the day; the snake can climb low height trees and plants too. The Cape cobra inhabits dry and open temperate regions, typically near water sources such as rivers and streams. The snake is frequently found near agricultural lands and human settlements (villages, towns, and cities). It has a habit of entering residences and barns in search of cool dark spaces to hide
• Contact with humans is regularly observed in the endemic regions, and Cape Cobra Snake Bites are not uncommon. The cobra is described as being aggressive when confronted. It is very agile and fast-moving. If provoked, the snake will threaten with raised forebody and expanded hood display; the snake is known to chase intruders for short distances
• Cape Cobra Snake Bites can result in fatalities due to systemic envenomation (venom injection through a bite), if the condition is left untreated. The rate of envenoming and untreated mortality rates are generally high. The venom is believed to contain highly potent neurotoxins and cardiotoxins
• Significant symptoms, such as low blood pressure, severe tissue necrosis, flaccid paralysis, and respiratory distress, may be noted. The signs and symptoms may include moderate to severe local pain, swelling, and blistering at the bite site, which may progress to headache, sweating, nausea and vomiting, abdominal pain, seizures, dizziness, and collapse
• Early administration of suitable antivenom (or antivenin) is the mainstay of treatment. Apart from this, symptomatic treatment that may include pain medication, wound care, intravenous fluid administration, and respiratory support may be necessary. The prognosis of Cape Cobra Snake Bite with prompt and effective therapy is usually good; but without immediate treatment, the condition can result in early fatalities