Local man bitten by rattlesnake while hiking in park.2. Woman recovering after being bitten by rattlesnake while walking her dog.3. Rattlesnake bite sends toddler to hospital.4. Boy recovering after being bit by rattlesnake on family farm.5. Fifth person dies this year from a rattlesnake bite in Arizona

In the United States, there are an average of 7,000 snakebites each year. Out of those, about 8-10 are fatal. Rattlesnakes are responsible for the majority of snakebites in the US, with about 1/4 of all bites being from this type of snake. While any venomous snake bite is a serious event, rattlesnake bites are particularly dangerous due to the potency of their venom.

If you are bitten by a rattlesnake, it is important to remain calm and seek medical attention as soon as possible. Do not try to suck out the venom or use a tourniquet. Keep the victim still and avoid moving them if possible. Place a cold compress on the area around the bite if available.

There is currently no antidote for rattlesnake venom, so treatment focuses on supporting the patient's vital functions until the venom is metabolized. This may include intravenous fluids, oxygen therapy, and other treatments depending on the situation. Antivenom may also be given to help reduce damage to tissues and organs.