The Economics of Everyday Things 56. Snake Venom
Jul 15, 2024
Investigative journalist Zachary Crockett explores the high costs and intricate process of producing snake anti-venom, the disparities in access to treatment in the U.S. and abroad, and advancements in affordable antivenoms. The podcast also touches on protecting dogs from parasites and a humorous reference to Reese's Peanut Butter Cups.
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Sean Bush's Son Snakebite Survival
- Sean Bush's son Jude was bitten by a juvenile rattlesnake but survived due to immediate treatment with antivenom.
- Bush's experience highlights the critical need for quick medical intervention for snakebites.
Snakes Avoid Unnecessary Bites
- Snakes avoid biting humans because venom production is metabolically costly.
- They primarily use venom to digest food, so wasting venom on humans is disadvantageous.
Venomous Snakes Variety and Impact
- Only 200 out of 3,000 snake species worldwide have venom potent enough to kill humans.
- US venomous snakes mainly include coral snakes and pit vipers with differing venom effects.