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

• Banded Water Cobra Snake Bite
• Naja Annulata Snake Bite

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

• The ringed water cobra (Naja annulata) is a moderately venomous snake found in the central region of sub-Saharan Africa that includes the countries of Cameroon, Central African Republic, Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, and Rwanda. This large reptile belongs to the Elapidae family (genus Naja or cobra), which generally includes slender and swift moving snakes. This cylindrical and robust-bodied water snake can grow from around 4.5 feet to over 9 feet in length
• The snake has a broad head and small-sized eyes; the head and neck are generally distinct from each other. Like most cobras, the head and neck of the ringed water cobra can spread into a hood. The snake has a medium-length black tail. The body of the snake is glossy and homogeneous in coloration; the color may be in shades of brown (pale brown, red-brown, or gray-brown). The entire body is marked by prominent dark/black bands or rings
• The snake is an excellent swimmer and can dive to great depths (nearly 75 feet). Its diet consist only of fish and may be eels. The snake is both diurnal and nocturnal. On land, the ringed water cobra is a slow reptile that takes shelter among rocks, tree roots, or holes in the ground. In the endemic forest and grassland regions, the snake is found by river and lake sides
• Contact with humans is not commonly seen; although, the snake may be found underneath bridges and small jetties near human settlements. Nevertheless, the ringed water cobra is a non-aggressive reptile that tends to swim away if approached. Even on land, apart from holding its ground and raising its hood, the snake rarely bites, unless sufficiently disturbed/provoked
• Ringed Water Cobra Snake Bites can result in fatalities due to systemic envenomation (venom injection through a bite), if the condition is left untreated, due to the presence of potent neurotoxins in the venom. In some cases, significant symptoms may be noted including flaccid paralysis, which can be severe, particularly in children
• The signs and symptoms of Ringed Water Cobra Snake Bite may include mild to moderate local pain and swelling at the bite site that may be followed by headache, weakness, nausea and vomiting, abdominal pain, seizures, dizziness, and collapse
• Presently, there is no suitable antivenom (or antivenin) available for Ringed Water Cobra Snake Bites. Symptomatic treatment is very important, which may include the use of include pain medication, intravenous fluid administration, and respiratory support, as needed. The prognosis of the condition with prompt and effective therapy is usually good; although death are uncommon, it may take place in the absence of adequate treatment