Safe and effective broad-spectrum, field-stable antivenoms are available for all three syndromes of snake envenomation in this AOR and treatment does not require identification of the species responsible. Snakebite treatment at the point of injury is recommended for AFRICOM due to prolonged evacuation times, high incidence of snakebites, and the high risk of death or permanent disability from many venomous snakes in the AOR if early antivenom treatment is not available.

Adverse Reaction Management

• If a mild or moderate reaction occurs, slow the infusion and treat symptomatically with antihistamines, steroids, and/or antiemetics as needed. Refer to management of adverse reactions for specific instructions.
• If a severe reaction such as anaphylaxis occurs, stop the infusion and treat according to the antivenom reactions algorithm listed elsewhere in the CPG. Reassess the patient once the reaction has been controlled and resume the infusion at a slower rate if any of the specific criteria for antivenom treatment listed elsewhere in the CPG have not completely resolved.