Abstract
This correspondence argues that the dangerousness of a venomous snake species is not solely determined by the venom characteristics or the lethality of the snake, and recognizes that medical importance comprises a key variable as well. The medical importance of a snake is determined by several factors – including frequency of medical attention after a bite, local or systemic envenomation provoked by the bite, fatal bites, long term consequences, availability of antivenom therapy as well as the size of the population at risk – that may vary from one region to another.
Highlights
This correspondence argues that the dangerousness of a venomous snake species is not solely determined by the venom characteristics or the lethality of the snake, and recognizes that medical importance comprises a key variable as well
Whilst in agreement with McCue’s [1] view on the misapprehension about the most dangerous snake in popular science, I would like to further emphasize the necessity of the recognition of the dangerousness of snakes based on their medical importance
This means that the dangerousness of a venomous snake species, in terms of the medical importance, could be different among geographical regions or human populations
Summary
This correspondence argues that the dangerousness of a venomous snake species is not solely determined by the venom characteristics or the lethality of the snake, and recognizes that medical importance comprises a key variable as well. Misconceptions are common regarding snakes and snakebites, subjects that have drawn much attention and curiosity among humans across a range of cultures and civilizations. Misconceptions tend to mask the true picture of snakebites and may result in neglect of known medically important snakes as well as undue recognition of other relevant snake species.
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