- A teenager from North Carolina was bitten while on a trip with his high school.
- The 17 year old was airlifted into the hospital for medical treatment.
- If you have been bitten, call 911 and keep the bite wound below your heart.
An unlucky teenager from North Carolina discovered the hard way how to deal with a rattlesnake bite.
Zain Shah got bitten by rattlesnake while on a fishing trip with his high school in the mountains of western North Carolina. North Carolina Emergency Management released a press statement stating that emergency responders in Avery County rescued and transported the hiker to hospital for treatment.
Zain (17 years old) was preparing to return for the evening when he stepped on a log. He felt a sharp prick in his heel. He saw a wood rattlesnake nearby. Currently, he is recovering.
“I am beyond grateful to the amazing NCHART and Linville Central Rescue teams who saved his life in the middle of nowhere! Imran, his father, posted on Facebook that he had been air-lifted from the hospital to Johnson City Medical Center and was treated there. He is now recovering back at home.
You should call 911 if a snake bites you and then go to your nearest emergency department. Maggie Peikon from the American Hiking Society said, “If someone can take photos while you are a distance away, this could help in identifying the serpent.” Travel + Leisure.
Peikon added, “Try to remain calm and minimise activity as much as possible.”
Avoid alcohol and painkillers, as they can thin the blood. If you’re bitten, don’t try to suction the venom with your mouth, or any other kind of device. This can cause an infection.
“If your arm or hand is bitten, remove all constricting clothing and jewelry, including rings, wristbands, etc. in case your arm swells. Use a belt, rope or other device to apply a tourniquet or constriction band. Peikon advised against applying either cold or hot packs. “If you have a pen or marker on you, circle the area where you were bitten and take note of the time of the bite—this will help monitor swelling and rate of changes.”
