Snake Bite Preparedness for Hiking in Rainforests near Boquete

Member since 04 January 2022

kathleentitusMember12 April 2023 17:59:36

I am wondering if one can be prepared for snake bites by carrying a snake bite anti-venom kit? I just read an article online at *** about snake bites as a "serious public health problem" - with Panama having the highest incidences. It sounds like the University of Costa Rica has made antivenoms medically available in Central America for pit vipers and coral snakes. So, it seems like a snake bite kit might have to be specific for the type of snake. I am not finding anything online that seems like a snake bite kid for Central America.

Of course, I'll always hike with a Panamanian naturalist guide....but it doesn't hurt to try to be prepared....

I'll appreciate whatever info you can share.

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Sunnymikkel Active member

Member since 28 November 2012

SunnymikkelActive member12 April 2023 19:53:05

Every Panamanian SS Hos[ital Clinic has Anti-Venom. If they do not have enough, they will have more brought in by Helicopter from the lab in Costa Rica. All at no cost to you. There is no commercially available anti-venom kit that you can buy that will have any positive effect if you get bit by a snake, save your money. We have lived on the Azuero in Panama for 10 years and have only seen one person get a snake bite.

kathleentitus Member

Member since 04 January 2022

kathleentitusMember15 April 2023 17:41:20

Thanks for your reply -- and you wrote just what I hoped someone would....I'll watch my step, but mainly think in terms of DEET mosquito repellant, sunscreen and a rain hat