San Andreas, CA…As outdoor activities increase during the warmer months, Dignity Health Mark Twain Medical Center is warning residents in Calaveras County to be vigilant about the risks posed by rattlesnakes. With more encounters expected this season, understanding how to prevent bites and respond quickly is crucial for safety.
Rattlesnake bites can cause serious injury and require immediate medical attention. Dr. Pardeep Athwal, Chief Medical Officer at Dignity Health Mark Twain Medical Center, offers essential guidance on how to reduce the risk of bites and what to do if bitten.
“Rattlesnake bites are not just painful—they can escalate quickly into a life-threatening situation if not treated promptly,” said Dr. Athwal. “Awareness and preparedness are our best defenses. Respecting wildlife, staying on designated paths, and knowing how to respond if bitten can mean the difference between a minor injury and a medical emergency.”
Important Information from Dr. Pardeep Athwal:
● Preventing bites: Stay on cleared trails, avoid tall grass and rocky areas where snakes may hide, and wear protective boots and long pants.
● Recognizing rattlesnakes: Learn to identify rattlesnakes by their distinctive rattle sound and appearance.
● What to do if bitten: Keep calm, immobilize the affected limb, and seek emergency medical care immediately. Avoid home remedies like cutting the wound or applying a tourniquet.
● Signs of envenomation: Swelling, severe pain, discoloration, and difficulty breathing require urgent treatment.
● Treatment options: Antivenom and supportive care at medical facilities can prevent complications and save lives.
About Mark Twain Medical Center
Founded in 1951, Mark Twain Medical Center is a 25-bed, critical access hospital providing inpatient acute care, outpatient services and emergency services; including Specialty Care Centers and four community Medical Centers. Our Medical Staff represents a broad range of specialties that ensure access to high quality medical care in a rural community.
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Dignity Health Warns Residents of Increased Rattlesnake Bite Risks During Outdoor Activities added by admin on
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Dogs, cats , some people can smell rattlesnakes.
My dog as a pup alerted to a rattlesnake in our lawn when she was 9 weeks old.
These snakes when older will usually signal- rattle to warn animals, people where they are . The young snakes do not have rattles, and are more of a threat. They also release all their venom, and inject more venom than older snakes, so are doubly dangerous.
Be aware, look, listen, watch your pets when there is cover for these snakes. They also are near water, where their quarry is also , slow down, be aware, and know you are in their domain.
We’ve taken our dog to “rattlesnake school” where she was trained to detect and avoid rattlesnakes. She had a “refresher” course a year later. If she stops on the trail and avoids an area, it’s best to follow her lead.
A rattlesnake bit me on my pecker, I need sniveler to suck out the venom…,,,
^^Doctor says your’e gonna’ die sucker^^
That’s why I need your help sucker.
^^Doctor also says your’e stupid!!^^
Most are bitten are those that harass the reptile and the others just need to get their head out of their ass!
My uncle is a physician and had said at more than one family get together that people are so stupid he finds it unbelievable that most can even walk LOL