TREATMENT OF POISONOUS SNAKE-BITES 265 



species, such as the Cobra or Indian Krait, it is preferable to inject 

 into the patient three whole closes of serum at once. 



In cases in which the phenomena of serious intoxication have 

 already appeared, and when asphyxia threatens, one must not 

 hesitate to inject 10 or even 20 c.c. of serum directly into a vein. 

 For such an injection it is most convenient to choose a superficial 

 vein at the elbow or wrist, or on the back of the hand. 



The introduction of serum into the veins is never dangerous if 

 good care be taken not to allow either bubbles of air or particles 

 of precipitated albumin to enter. 



It is not advisable to repeat the injections beneath the skin or 

 into the veins unless the general symptoms appear to become more 

 acute. 



In most cases the local pain, excitement, and attacks of cramp 

 and nausea disappear within a few minutes after the first injection. 

 Improvement progresses very rapidly, and by the following day the 

 patient has recovered. 



The administration of ammonia, alcohol, morphia, or ether by 

 the mouth is entirely superfluous. These drugs, as I have already 

 stated, may even be harmful to the patient and hinder the effects 

 of the serum. All that should be done is to give copious hot drinks, 

 tea or coffee, and to cover up the patient warmly in order to induce 

 abundant perspiration. 



The bitten member should not be cauterised with red hot iron 

 or with chemical agents of any kind, since such cauterisations only 

 lead to injuries which are too often prejudicial to the normal action 

 of the affected organs. 



Treatment of Poisonous Bites in the Case of Domestic Animals. 

 — It often happens that dogs, horses, or cattle are bitten and 

 succumb to the poisoning in a few hours or in two or three days. 

 Such accidents are especially frequent among sporting dogs, even 

 in Europe, in regions in which vipers are found. 



In most cases, dogs, horses, and cattle are bitten on the nose, 

 and such bites are immediately followed by a very painful swelling. 



