A distress call to the Reaction Unit South Africa (RUSA) Operations Centre at approximately 06:41 led to an urgent medical response in Hazelmere, KwaZulu-Natal. A concerned member of the public reported a man in need of immediate medical assistance after suffering a venomous snake bite.
RUSA paramedics were swiftly dispatched to the scene and located the injured man behind the Hazelmere Dam wall. According to the victim, he had been engaged in prayer beside a river when he was bitten on his left foot by a large black snake. He identified the reptile as a Black Mamba, one of the most venomous snakes in Africa.
The man quickly began exhibiting symptoms of neurotoxic poisoning, including severe swelling at the bite site. Despite his condition, he managed to walk a short distance away from the river to seek help. Security officers in the area assisted him and immediately contacted RUSA for emergency medical intervention.
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Upon arrival, RUSA paramedics assessed the situation and provided symptomatic treatment to stabilize the victim. Given the life-threatening nature of Black Mamba venom, he was rapidly transported to a medical facility for urgent care.
Black Mamba bites are known for their fast-acting and highly lethal venom, which affects the nervous system and can lead to paralysis or respiratory failure if left untreated. Quick medical intervention is crucial in such cases to increase the chances of survival.
Authorities have urged the public to exercise caution in snake-prone areas and to seek professional help if encountering dangerous reptiles.