In an unusual incident reported from Rajauli, Bihar, a man bit a snake back after being bitten himself, resulting in the reptile’s death while the man survived. The event unfolded as railway worker Santosh Lohar rested after a long workday.
Details of the Incident
Santosh Lohar, a 35-year-old railway employee, was part of a team laying tracks in a densely forested area of Rajauli. Late Tuesday night, a snake bit him as he was preparing to sleep. Reacting swiftly, Lohar grabbed the snake and bit it twice, following a local belief that doing so would counteract the venom.
Immediate Response and Treatment
Lohar’s colleagues, who were nearby, quickly took him to the Rajauli subdivision hospital. Dr. Satish Chandra Sinha, who treated Lohar, reported that he responded well to the medical care provided and was discharged the next day. The type of snake involved in the incident has not been identified.
Snakebite Statistics in India
Snakebites are a significant concern in India, with approximately 50,000 fatalities reported annually. The majority of these bites are attributed to the “big four” snakes: the common krait, Indian cobra, Russell’s viper, and saw-scaled viper.
Similar Incident in Indonesia
On a related note, a tragic event occurred in Indonesia earlier this month. A 30-year-old woman was swallowed whole by a 30-foot python. Her husband discovered her feet protruding from the snake’s mouth and managed to kill the serpent, but unfortunately, he was too late to save her.
This story highlights the dangers posed by snakes and the varying cultural beliefs surrounding their bites. While Lohar’s quick thinking and access to medical treatment saved his life, it underscores the importance of prompt and proper medical attention in snakebite cases.