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BOB HIRSHON (host):
![Saw-scaled vipers carpet vipers Photo Credit D.J. Williams www.snakebiteinitiative.org](https://www.scienceupdate.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/Saw-scaled-vipers-carpet-vipers-Photo-Credit-D.J.-Williams-www.snakebiteinitiative.org_.jpg)
A CSI snakebite test. I’m Bob Hirshon and this is Science Update.
![Envenomation following saw-scaled viper aka carpet viper bite, Africa Photo Credit D.A. Warrell www.snakebiteinitiative.org](https://www.scienceupdate.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/Envenomation-following-saw-scaled-viper-aka-carpet-viper-bite-Africa-Photo-Credit-D.A.-Warrell-www.snakebiteinitiative.org_1.jpg)
Snakebites claim the lives of tens of thousands of people each year, mostly in poor and developing countries. Inspired by forensic science, a multinational team of researchers has now developed a rapid DNA test that accurately identifies the type of snake from its bite. Goethe University biologist Ulrich Kuch explains.
ULRICH KUCH (Goethe University):
The test works like a standard crime scene investigation, we collect genetic evidence of the culprit – the snake – from the bite site, and we analyze that and find out the species of snake involved.
HIRSHON:
He says the test will help healthcare workers choose the appropriate anti-venom and anticipate species-specific complications. The next step will be to clinically validate the test in Burma and Nepal, where snakebites are a leading cause of death. The team presented their research at the annual meeting of the American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene. I’m Bob Hirshon, for AAAS, the science society.