Certainly! Snake bites are a serious public health issue in Sri Lanka, with nearly **80,000** snake bites occurring every year ². The state spends more than **USD 10 million** annually on treating snakebite patients ². 

The most venomous snakes in Sri Lanka are the Russell's viper, cobra, Ceylon krait, saw-scaled viper, and hump-nosed pit viper ³. It is important to note that not all snakes in Sri Lanka are venomous, and some are only mildly venomous ³. 

If you or someone you know is bitten by a snake, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately. The Sri Lanka Medical Association has published guidelines for the management of snakebite in hospitals, which can be a helpful resource for doctors and patients alike ¹. 

In the event of a snakebite, the first step is to identify the snake if possible. The medically important snakes in Sri Lanka are highly venomous, moderately venomous, and non-venomous ¹. The next step is to assess the victim's condition and perform the 20-minute whole blood clotting test ¹. 

Antivenom therapy is the most effective treatment for snakebites, but it is important to manage antivenom reactions as well ¹. Children, in particular, require special attention when it comes to snakebite management ¹. 

In conclusion, snake bites are a serious issue in Sri Lanka, but with proper medical attention and management, they can be treated effectively. Remember to seek medical attention immediately if you or someone you know is bitten by a snake. Thank you for watching!.

Source: Conversation with Bing, 15/11/2023

(1) Snakes of Sri Lanka – The Island. https://island.lk/snakes-of-sri-lanka/.

(2) Are there snakes in Sri Lanka? - Travellers Isle. https://travellersisle.com/are-there-snakes-in-sri-lanka/.

(3) GUIDELINES FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF SNAKEBITE IN HOSPITAL - 2021 - SLMA. https://slma.lk/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/slma-sbg_2021-v3.2.pdf.

(4) 7 Of the Most Venomous Snakes In Sri Lanka To Watch Out For. https://travelsnippet.com/asia/sri-lanka/venomous-snakes-in-sri-lanka/.

(5) Snake Bite Guidelines | The Sri Lanka Medical Association (SLMA). https://slma.lk/blog/category/snake-bite-guidelines/.

(6) en.wikipedia.org. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Snakebite.