The Common Krait (Bungarus caeruleus) is found in the jungles and human habitations of the Indian sub-continent. This snake is highly venomous, and is one of the "big four" snakes in India.
Venom of this snake is extremely neurotoxic and quickly induces muscle paralysis. Clinically, their venom contains pre-synaptic neurotoxins. And it is many times more venomous than that of the common cobras.These neurotoxins generally affect the nerve endings near the synaptic gap of the brain. Kraits are nocturnal and seldom encounter humans during daylight hours, so incidents are rare. Note that there is frequently little or no pain from a krait bite and this can provide false reassurance to the victim. Typically, victims complain of severe abdominal cramps, accompanied by progressive paralysis. As there are no local symptoms, a patient should be carefully observed for signs of paralysis (eg the onset of ptosis) and treated urgently with antivenom. Note that it is also possible to support bite victims via mechanical ventilation, using equipment of the type generally available at hospitals. Such support should be provided until the venom is metabolised and the victim can breathe unaided. If death occurs it takes place approximately 6-8 hours after the krait bite. Cause of death is general respiratory failure i.e. suffocation.
