San Diego Zoo worker hospitalized on Monday after being bitten by venomous snake with no antivenom.
The following written content by Frank Miles
A San Diego Zoo employee was hospitalized Monday afternoon after being bitten by a venomous snake, according to reports.
The incident occurred as the wildlife care specialist was caring for the African bush viper, scientifically known as Atheris squamigera, in a non-public area, the zoo said.
The zoo added, “In keeping with our protocols, the staff member was immediately taken to a hospital for evaluation and medical care, and we remain in close contact.”
The staff member’s current condition is unknown, 10 News reported.
“Although the San Diego Zoo cares for a number of venomous reptiles, incidents like this are very rare, and the snake was contained at all times with no risk of an escape,” the zoo added in a statement.
National Geographic states about the viper native to parts of western and central Africa: “Their venom typically kills within days.”
The symptoms from a bite from the reptile include “serious kidney damage and disrupt[ed] blood clotting and flow” along with “severe inflammation, hemorrhaging, and tissue death.”
The snake “can cause fevers or internal bleeding, which can be fatal,” a study from the American College of Medical Toxicology reported. Read more from NY Post
