Herpetologist launches free mobile snakebite help app

First aid for snakebites is problematic, largely because of all the myths and incorrect or outdated information doing the rounds.

While sound advice is given in books like Snakes and Snakebite in Southern Africa, few people have access to such publications.

But what if you had access to all that essential information right at your fingertips?

Internationally renowned herpetologist and author Johan Marais of the African Snakebite Institute recently launched a free mobile application that covers the essentials of first aid treatment for snakebites.

The advice is concise, accurate and simple to follow and understand.

It also includes emergency contact numbers for snakebite incidences.

The medical treatment of snakebite is also covered and gives medical doctors quick and easy access to the published snakebite treatment protocols.

These publications cover the diagnosis and treatment of snakebite including the use of antivenom.

For unwanted snakes in houses, gardens and business premises, the app lists over 450 snake removers country wide, divided into specific areas.

Should anyone encounter a snake and need it identified, a feature allows anyone to quickly submit a photograph for positive identification.

The app also has snake profiles of common snakes in Southern Africa – each profile has four colour photographs, a distribution map and a short section on a snake species to assist with identification.

This free app had over 2000 downloads in the first 48 hours.

To download the App please go to https://www.africansnakebiteinstitute.com/app

Do you want to receive news alerts via WhatsApp? Send us a WhatsApp message (not an sms) with your name and surname to 061 718 4438.

Please read our WhatsApp broadcast list disclaimer.
Join the conversation on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram