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

• Black and White Cobra Snake Bite
• Naja Melanoleuca Snake Bite
• White-Lipped Cobra Snake Bite

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

• The forest cobra (Naja melanoleuca) is a highly venomous and dangerous snake that is widely distributed across central, western, parts of southeastern sub-Saharan Africa spanning several countries. It is found at elevations up to 3,300 feet (1,000 m). This large reptile belongs to the Elapidae family (genus Naja or cobra), which generally includes slender and swift moving snakes
• The slightly flattened and robust-bodied forest cobra can grow from around 5 feet to nearly 10.5 feet in length; it is the largest among all African cobras. 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 this 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 dark in coloration, in shades of gray, brown, or black. The underbelly of the snake is usually yellow or creamy white and may display dark spots or blotches
• The snake is terrestrial and feeds on frogs, small mammals (rodents), birds, and even fish. It prefers to hunt during late evenings or nights; the snake can swim well and also climb low height trees and plants. The forest cobra inhabits areas of dense vegetation, tropical rainforests, open grasslands, and agricultural lands. The snake is also found near dense human settlements (villages, towns, and cities); it is usually seen around waterbodies
• Contact with humans is regularly observed in the endemic regions, and Forest Cobra Snake Bites are common. The snake is a giant killer in several regions of West Africa. The cobra is described as being aggressive, very agile, and quick to strike. If provoked, the snake will threaten with raised forebody and expanded hood display; the snake is known to stand very tall to intimidate its pursuer
• Forest 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 high. The venom is believed to contain highly potent neurotoxins
• 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 Forest Cobra Snake Bite with prompt and effective therapy is usually good; but without immediate treatment, the condition can result in early fatalities