COMMUNITY NEWS - Sharp rise in snake bites

Health authorities are urging the public to stay alert for snake activity following a sharp rise in snake bite cases presenting to the state's emergency departments in 2024.

Emergency department presentations for snake bites rose by 15 per cent last year compared to 2023 figures, going from 1,094 presentations in 2023 to 1,257 in 2024.

 In December 2024 alone, Queensland’s public hospital emergency departments recorded 160 presentations related to snake bites, representing the highest number recorded in a single month for all of 2024

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Queensland is home to around 120 species of snakes, many of which possess venom, and some of which are very dangerous to humans and pets if bitten. 

Caboolture Hospital Clinical Toxicologist Dr Emma Maguire emphasised that avoiding snake bites is key to remaining safe.

If you’re in an area where snakes might be found, it’s important not to surprise them - make some noise, and watch where you step or put your hands. Be sure to wear protective clothing such as boots and jeans,” she said.

“Don’t approach a snake. Leave it alone and call a professional snake catcher. Snakes will feel threatened if you try and move them and may bite.

“If you’re bitten by a snake, stay calm - and call an ambulance immediately. If a limb has been bitten, apply a firm bandage over the entire limb, and immobilise it. Avoid moving around or running as this will increase venom spread – just sit somewhere safe and wait for help to arrive.

”Envenomed patients may feel generally unwell with a bad headache, abdominal pain, muscle weakness or blurred vision. They may faint or in some cases they may feel no symptoms at all.

Sometimes an envenomed patient may collapse – and if the person is unresponsive or not breathing, they may need CPR.

For more information about snake bite first aid visit poisonsinfo.health.qld.gov.au/bites-and-stings/snake-bites