Patmos: Viper bites 65-year-old man – Airlifted by helicopter to Syros island

A serious incident occurred on the afternoon of Friday, 9 May in Patmos, when a 65-year-old local resident was bitten on the hand by a viper snake, resulting in severe health complications.

Due to the worsening of his condition, it was deemed necessary for him to be immediately airlifted to Syros by a helicopter from the National Emergency Aid Centre (EKAB), where he was admitted in serious condition.

According to the latest information, the 65-year-old is now out of danger after receiving antivenom serum and the appropriate medical treatment.

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Greek health authorities are reminding citizens to exercise particular caution when walking outdoors and in rural areas, especially in spring and summer, when snake activity increases.

According to National Emergency Aid Centre (EKAB), the severity of envenomation from a snakebite depends on several factors, including:

• The patient’s age
• General health condition
• Location and depth of the bite
• Size of the snake
• Whether or not the victim moved after the bite

Only around 10% of snakes are venomous. The only venomous snake in Greece is the viper (Vipera ammodytes).

Effects of Snake Venom

Local symptoms:

• Pain
• Swelling
• Bruising
• Blistering, which may spread within a few hours. Blisters can become infected and lead to gangrene.

Systemic symptoms (if venom is absorbed):

• Vomiting
• Weakness
• Dizziness
• Chills and fever
• Sweating
• Haemorrhagic events
• Tachycardia
• Hypotension
• Shock
• Pulmonary oedema
• Acute kidney failure

First Aid for Snakebite – What to Do:

Do:

• Keep the victim still and calm
• Immobilise the affected limb below heart level
• Clean the wound gently with soap and water
• Transport the victim to hospital as soon as possible
• Record or remember the snake’s colour and shape if possible (do not attempt to capture it)
• Ensure the victim receives a tetanus shot

Do not:

• Allow the victim to walk
• Apply ice to the wound
• Use a tight tourniquet
• Give coffee or alcohol
• Attempt to suck out the venom
• Administer antivenom outside a hospital setting

Note: Antivenom is administered only in hospitals and is not always necessary. In some cases, it can trigger an allergic reaction or anaphylaxis in sensitive individuals.