Martinique to Build Serpentarium, Boost anti-Venom Production for Deadly Trigonocephale
Gros-Morne, Martinique – Local authorities are moving forward with plans to construct a serpentarium on the island of Gros-Morne, aiming to increase local production of anti-venom for the Trigonocephalus, Martinique’s only venomous snake. The project represents a dual focus on scientific advancement and public education regarding the potentially hazardous, yet legally protected, reptile.
Currently, the Bothrofav serum – the treatment for Trigonocephalus bites – is imported, creating a reliance on external sources. The new serpentarium would allow Martinique to manufacture its own serum, benefiting not only the island’s population but potentially the wider Caribbean region.
“We have an objective to set up a SERPENTARIUM on the territory, which would allow us to make our anti-venine serum ourselves. It would be beneficial for the Martinicans, but also for the whole Caribbean,” explained Yolande Burac, municipal councilor responsible for health and well-being.
While fatalities are rare – martinique hasn’t recorded a death from a snakebite in over 20 years – bite incidents are on the rise. According to Professor Dabor Resiere, chief of clinical toxicology service at the Martinique University Hospital, cases have increased from 25-30 annually to 40-45.
“You have to know it,but you have to know how to live with[the[the[the[theTrigonocephalus],” Burac emphasized,noting the snakes are increasingly found near human dwellings,sometimes unintentionally transported by vehicles or carried by river currents.
Authorities are reinforcing preventative measures, advising immediate medical attention (dialing 15), immobilization of the affected limb, and avoidance of incisions, suction, or tourniquets in the event of a bite. Simple precautions around homes - clearing brush, securing food from rodents, and raising beds – and wearing protective clothing during hikes are also recommended.
“We must fear the bite, because the trigonocephalus is very poisonous, in the absence of care we can die,” professor Resiere stated. “This is why we have this kind of meeting, to inform, educate and protect.”
