Western Gaboon Viper

DESCRIPTION:

The Western Gaboon Viper adult size averages 120cm with a maximum length of around 180 cm. Western Gaboon Vipers are also called Western Gaboon Adders are very thick-bodied snakes that are triangular in cross-section, with a big flat triangular-shaped head. The color-pattern is very attractive consisting of a geometric pattern of creams, browns, pinks and purples. There is a series of oblong rectangles running along the length of the back with a pattern of triangular markings and light vertical bars along the sides. There is usually a pair of distinctive erect scales on the snout.

HABITS & HABITAT:

The Western Gaboon Viper is mainly found in rain forest and heavily wooded areas. Western gaboon adders are nocturnal and lead a sedentary lifestyle often lying in the same position for days. Although much feared these snakes are generally placid and do not show aggression unless relentlessly provoked. If annoyed they will hiss loudly and strike out with amazing speed.

DISTRIBUTION:

Guinea (Conakry), Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Sierra Leone, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Togo.

VENOM:

The venom of the Western Gaboon Viper has a potent predominantly cytotoxic venom, with haemotoxic and cardiotoxic components; When a bite does occur, it should always be considered a serious medical emergency. Even an average bite from an average-sized specimen is potentially fatal; Since their venom glands are enormous, each bite produces the second-largest quantity of venom of any venomous snake.

SYMPTOMS:

In humans, a bite from a Western Gaboon Viper causes rapid and conspicuous swelling, intense pain, severe shock, and local blistering and bruising. Necrosis can be extensive; Shock, severe pain, swelling, blistering and necrosis; Cardiotoxin causes atrial arrhythmia, prolonged QT interval and T-wave inversion; Also causes bleeding; Uncoordinated movements; Defecation & urination; Swelling of the tongue and eyelids; Convulsions, and unconsciousness; Sudden hypotension, heart damage, and dyspnoea may occur; Blood may become incoagulable, with internal bleeding that may lead to haematuria and haematemesis; Local tissue damage may require surgical excision and possibly amputation to any affected limb; Healing may be slow and fatalities during the recovery period are not uncommon.

FIRST AID:

Immobilise and calm patient; keep bitten limb elevated; remove restrictive items like shoe, watch, ring, etc; immediately proceed to a medical trauma facility.

ANTIVENOM:

EchiTAb-PLUS-ICP; Antivenom should be administered as soon as possible to save the affected limb or indeed the victim’s life.