Introduction
The snake bite is the leading toxin-related injury in Bangladesh, causing significant mortality and morbidity, particularly in rural regions (1). A comprehensive community-based survey conducted in Bangladesh documented an annual incidence of 700,000 snake bites, resulting in 6000 fatalities (2). In our country, there exist five snake groups that hold significant medical importance, namely the cobra, krait, Russell’s viper, green pit viper, and sea snake. The predominant species responsible for venomous bites in our country are cobras and kraits. The bulk of poisonous bites are caused by kraits, accounting for 77.78% of cases, followed by cobras at 22.23% (3). Neurotoxicity is the primary characteristic of these venomous snakes, with respiratory failure being the primary cause of mortality after envenomation (2).
Kraits typically engage in nocturnal biting behavior upon entering residences in pursuit of sustenance (4). Most of the bites took place during the nighttime while the victims were sleeping on the floor (5). Historically, snakebite cases have been addressed by traditional healers, known as Ozhas, employing non-scientific approaches that frequently result in adverse consequences for the affected individuals (1).
The venoming caused by these snakes is a critical medical situation that poses a serious risk to life. It necessitates the use of specific antivenoms and other interventions, including immediate assisted ventilation in cases of respiratory paralysis (6). Hence, the presence of endotracheal intubation and artificial breathing facilities is essential for the thorough and comprehensive treatment of neurotoxic snake bite (7).
In developing-country rural areas, the absence of quick access to life-saving anti-snake venom serum (ASVS) and mechanical ventilation for respiratory support leads to increased case fatality rates (8).