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

• Angolan Coral Snake Bite
• Aspidelaps Lubricus Snake Bite
• South African Coral Snake Bite

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

• The Cape coral snake (Aspidelaps lubricus) is a venomous snake found in some southwestern African nations including Angola, Namibia, and South Africa (Cape Province). The snake belongs to the Elapidae family that generally includes slender and swift moving snakes. A few subspecies have been identified for Aspidelaps lubricus
• The snake usually grow to 1.5 feet in length, while some adults reach over 2.5 feet. The body of the snake is relatively heavy with a short, pointed tail. Its head is small and broad, and slightly distinct from its neck. The snake has a broad, blunt snout that helps the snake in burrowing. The snake generally dwells underground (even beneath stones). It is active during the nights
• Even though unrelated to true coral snakes (Micrurus species), the Cape coral snake displays vivid colors and banded patterns. The body color is usually orange to coral-red with black crossbands along its length. Often, the first black band extends onto the top of the head and is prominently visible when the snake raises its hood; the first few bands may extend to the snake’s underside. The snake’s belly is usually yellow-white
• The Cape coral snake is found in the dry and sandy/rocky regions of semi-arid scrublands and desert fringes. It may be particularly seen near rocky outcrops. The snake mostly feeds on lizards, small rodents, and even reptile eggs. Even though easily irritable, many a times the snake may defend itself by raising its forebody (head and neck), spreading its hood like a cobra, and making striking actions often with its mouth closed
• Cape Coral Snake Bites may result in fatalities from systemic envenomation (venom injection through a bite) in the absence of treatment. The potent cytotoxic-neurotoxic venom released can cause systemic effects including muscle weakness and flaccid paralysis
• The signs and symptoms of Cape Coral Snake Bite may include local effects at the bite site, such as pain and swelling. As various body systems gets rapidly affected by the venom, it can result in widespread symptoms including headache, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, seizures, collapse, and respiratory distress
• There is no specific antivenom (or antivenin) for this snake bite. Symptomatic treatment is necessary and may include pain medication, wound care, intravenous fluid administration, and breathing support, as needed. The prognosis of Cape Coral Snake Bite with prompt and effective therapy is usually good; per literature, no deaths have been reported from bites of this snake