Jake survives bedtime cobra bite
A local boy survives a bite from a juvenile Mozambique Spitting Cobra at a resort in Northern Zululand
NOT many people can say they have survived a bite from a Mozambique Spitting Cobra (Naja mossambica); but one lucky Zululand outdoor enthusiast, Jake Taylor (12) can make that claim.
Jake was last week bitten by what’s considered one of the most dangerous snakes in Africa.
The incident occurred in the early hours of Friday at a resort in Northern Zululand where Jake had been on holiday with a friend’s family.
According to Jake’s mom, Leila, her son was asleep when the venomous snake sank one of its fangs into his shoulder blade.
‘He was asleep and woke up because he felt some sort of pain in his shoulder.
‘When he opened his eyes he saw the snake on his hand and luckily his instinct kicked in and he flung it out of the bed. ‘
Jake then alerted his friend and his friend’s parents who immediately summoned an ambulance, which arrived on scene with a snake expert on board.
Jake was rushed and admitted to the emergency unit at Ngwelezana Hospital at around 5.45am.
After receiving treatment and having his vitals monitored closely, Jake was transferred to the general ward before being discharged on Saturday.
Leila said it was an overwhelming and scary experience for her family, especially since Jake’s sister, Grace, was only born 10 days prior to that day.
‘From what we understand he got a small dose of venom in his blood and he is extremely lucky.
‘According to the doctors, it would take up to five days before they can determine how much of damage has been done to the tissue.
‘Thereafter they will decide on the option of a skin graft.’
Leila noted that Jake is currently in an immense amount of pain.
‘We moved him downstairs because he can’t walk upstairs to his own room.
‘All his muscles are sore.
‘He is very lucky because only one of the fangs got into him.’
While Jake recuperates, it must be said that nothing can deter this ‘Bear Grylls’ fanatic.
He already has plans for preserving the snake, which was killed on scene, in a jar, so he can retell the tale of his survival.
HAVE YOUR SAY
Like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter.
For news straight to your phone invite us:
WhatsApp – 072 069 4169
Instagram – zululand_observer
