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

• Formosan Habu Snake Bite
• Protobothrops Mucrosquamatus Snake Bite
• Taiwanese Pitviper Snake Bite

What is Taiwan Habu Snake Bite? (Definition/Background Information)

• The Taiwan habu (Protobothrops mucrosquamatus) is a fairly common venomous snake that is found in many parts of the Indian sub-continent, North Asia, and Southeast Asia, across countries that include Bangladesh, China, India, Myanmar, Taiwan, and Vietnam. The snake belongs to the subspecies of pit vipers, family Viperidae. Pit vipers are termed so, due to the presence of certain heat-sensing organs located in a recess/notch between their eyes and nostrils
• Taiwan habu mainly preys on rodents, other birds, snakes, and frogs. It is mostly a nocturnal reptile that is found in both open and forested regions at up to 4,600 feet (1,400 m) elevations, particularly in bamboo forests, tea plantations, on agricultural lands, and near river banks. It can also climb large plants and small trees in search of prey
• Taiwan habu can grow from anywhere between 2.5 feet to nearly 5 feet in length. The snake is slender and has a relatively short tail. The large head of the snake appears as an elongated triangle and is distinct from its neck. The body color is in shades of brown (light brown to gray-brown) with rows of large blotches that are purple-brown or chocolate-colored; some specimens have a yellow border around the blotches. The underbelly of the snake is white with numerous brown dots
• The snake is generally found close to human dwellings and among agricultural crops; contact with humans is commonly observed. The snake is also known to enter homes in search of prey. Taiwan Habu Snake Bites can cause moderate to severe envenomation (venom injection) and result in possible deaths without early treatment; the envenomation rate may exceed 80%
• The signs and symptoms of Taiwan Habu Snake Bite may include severe localized effects such as pain at the bite site, swelling, and blistering. Systemic symptoms may include severe tissue damage and necrosis, shock, bleeding problems, and renal failure. The venom is a potent mix of hemotoxins that can cause severe but non-specific symptoms in the victims
• Currently, no suitable antivenom (or antivenin) is available for the Taiwan Habu Snake Bite. Symptomatic treatment is mainly considered that includes wound cleaning and providing breathing support, as needed. The prognosis of the condition with prompt and effective therapy is usually good; although, some reports indicate that deaths have taken place from a lack of quick and proper treatment