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

• Aspidelaps Scutatus Snake Bite
• Intermediate Shield-Nosed Snake Bite
• Kalahari Shield Cobra Snake Bite

What is Shield Nose Snake Bite? (Definition/Background Information)

• The shield nose snake (Aspidelaps scutatus) is a venomous snake found in some south African nations including Botswana, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, and Zimbabwe. The snake belongs to the Elapidae family that generally includes slender and swift moving snakes. A few subspecies of Aspidelaps scutatus have been identified
• The snake usually grow to 16 inches, while some adults reach 2.5 feet in length. The snake is fairly solid-bodied with a short, pointed tail. Its head is short, broad, and slightly distinct from its neck. The snake has a broad and blunt snout that helps the snake in burrowing (under loose rocks and fallen trees); it is also known to reside near manmade structures such as old pipes
• The name of the snake is from the “shield-like” enlarged and prominent scales on its head and back. The snake generally dwells underground (even beneath stones) and is active during the nights; it may be sluggish during the daytime. The body color is usually gray-to-orange brown or salmon-pink with irregular brown blotches; its underbelly may be white. The snake’s head, neck, and forebody is usually shiny black and white
• The shield nose snake is found in dry and sandy regions, called sandveld, and grassy savannahs. The snake mostly preys on small mammals, frogs, lizards, and other small snakes. Even though easily irritable, many a times the snake may defend itself by raising its forebody (head and neck), spread its hood like a cobra, and make striking actions often with its mouth closed (called mock strikes). Rarely, when cornered, the snake may play dead too
• Shield Nose Snake Bites may occasionally result in fatalities from systemic envenomation (venom injection through a bite) in the absence of adequate treatment. The potent neurotoxic venom released can cause systemic effects including painful muscle weakness and flaccid paralysis
• The signs and symptoms of Shield Nose Snake Bite may include local effects at the bite site such as pain and swelling. As various body systems get affected by the venom, it can result in widespread symptoms including headache, slurred speech, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, seizures, collapse, and respiratory distress
• There is no specific antivenom (or antivenin) available 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 Shield Nose Snake Bite with prompt and effective therapy is usually good; deaths have been rarely reported from bites of this snake