Water Moccasin Bite & Tissue Damage
Water moccasin bites can cause severe tissue damage. If not treated immediately, the bites become painful and can cause tissue to die. Bites that go untreated for longer than 12 hours or are improperly treated can result in death.
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Water Moccasins
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Water moccasins are sometimes called cottonmouths. Their habitat stretches through the southern United States from Virginia to Texas, and they live in wetlands. They look similar to non-poisonous water snakes, but it is hard to tell the difference. If you see a snake, avoid contact, and respect its territory.
Bites
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Water moccasins don't usually bite unless they feel threatened. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that fewer than 20 people a year die from snakebites in the United States each year.
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Venom
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Water moccasins have venom that affects the blood and can destroy body tissue. According to the Texas Poison Control Network, venom is modified saliva designed for killing prey.
Tissues Damage
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If you are bitten by a water moccasin, try to stay calm and still. The North Carolina Cooperative Extension recommends moving as little as possible, so the venom does not spread and cause extensive tissue damage.
Treatment
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Anti-venom obtained from a medical facility is the best treatment for water moccasin bites.
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