WHEN a spitting cobra is threatened, it spits by simply squeezing its venom glands, which pushes the venom into the fangs and out of the forward-facing holes. All venomous snakes can do this, but the difference is that spitting cobras have larger holes in their fangs, which are placed at a certain angle, so instead of oozing out as they bite, it actually squirts out.
A spitting cobra can launch its venom a distance of 6 to 8 feet (1.8 to 2.4 meters). But there are ways to try and minimise the effects and treat your eyes if you are spat at.
Here’s what to do:
- Treat the eye immediately: Wash the eye(s) out with generous volumes of fluid. The types of fluids that are acceptable include water and milk.
- See the doctor as soon as possible: The attacked eye or eyes will need to be examined to see if there is any damage. There may also be a need for the ingestion of antibiotics for a few days to calm any possible bacterial infection.
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