In the Florida series, about 10 people per year were bitten by a cottonmouth while reaching over the side of a boat to pull up a string of fish. Cottonmouths inflict most of their bite under the water, on top of the water, or near the water. The height of snake season is between April and October, peaking between July and August. Snakes are generally less active at temperatures less than 50-60 degrees, or greater than 80 degrees. Envenomation may include some or all of these symptoms, depending on the severity of envenomation.
Death can occur up to several days following the bite, or in as little as two hours.
In pit viper envenomation the average death occurs in two days. If the bite is inflicted in an artery, vein, lymphatics, or a nerve, death will occur in 30 seconds to 10 minutes. Treat for shock. Wash the wound with soap and water. Call 911 or transport to the nearest medical facility.