An 11-year-old boy from Quach Pham commune, Ca Mau, was hospitalized in critical condition after a venomous snakebite, experiencing drooping eyelids, respiratory failure, and ultimately complete respiratory arrest. Thanks to prompt medical intervention at Ca Mau Obstetrics and Pediatrics Hospital, the boy has now recovered, breathing independently and showing good signs of improvement.

The family reported that the boy was playing behind his house on the afternoon of 18/5 when he was suddenly bitten by an unknown snake. He was initially taken to a local doctor for treatment, but was transferred to Cai Nuoc Regional General Hospital only after his condition worsened.

Upon admission to Ca Mau Obstetrics and Pediatrics Hospital in the early morning of 19/5, a representative from the hospital stated on 21/5 that the boy exhibited increased phlegm secretion, drooping eyelids, and progressive respiratory failure, leading to complete respiratory arrest. Doctors immediately performed intubation. Based on symptoms like eyelid paralysis and severe wheezing, coupled with snake bite marks on the wound, doctors diagnosed a cobra bite.

The snake bite wound on the patient's leg. Photo: *Ca Mau Obstetrics and Pediatrics Hospital*.

The patient received mechanical ventilation, cobra antivenom, and intensive care. After two days, he was conscious, responsive, breathing ambient air independently, eating well, and the bite wound showed reduced swelling.

Doctor Huynh Thuy Hang, Head of Pediatric Emergency at Ca Mau Obstetrics and Pediatrics Hospital, advised parents to supervise children playing in gardens, fields, and dense bushes. She also urged parents to teach children to immediately report any snakebites or unusual symptoms to an adult.

Doctor Hang also cautioned against using folk remedies such as applying plant leaves, cutting the wound, or attempting to suck out venom. Such practices can lead to infection and waste crucial time for emergency care. If a venomous snakebite is suspected, she advised immobilizing the bitten area, limiting movement, keeping the wound below heart level, avoiding overly tight tourniquets, and promptly transporting the victim to a medical facility for timely treatment.

An Minh