Snakebite Victim Walks Into Mathura Hospital Carrying the Live Snake – Viral Video Sparks Safety Debate
On January 13, 2026, a 39-year-old e-rickshaw driver reported to a government hospital in Mathura district, Uttar Pradesh, after sustaining a snakebite. In an unusual turn of events, the patient carried the live snake that had bitten him into the hospital premises. The incident, captured on video and later circulated widely, prompted immediate concern among hospital staff and patients, leading to the involvement of local police authorities.
Viral Footage Highlights Patient's Frustration
In a viral video circulating on social media, Deepak described the delay in his medical care, stating that he had travelled from Vrindavan and had been waiting for treatment for the past half hour at the Mathura district hospital. He also raised concerns about the lack of basic treatment facilities at the government hospital and said that he was compelled to stage a sit-in on the road.
Identification Versus Immediate Medical Care
The patient reportedly brought the snake with the intention of helping doctors identify the species responsible for the bite. From a clinical standpoint, however, the physical presence of the snake is not essential for initiating treatment.
In India, snakebite management relies primarily on the patient’s clinical presentation rather than definitive species identification. National guidelines recommend prompt assessment for signs of envenomation, such as local swelling, bleeding abnormalities, neuro-muscular weakness, or respiratory distress, followed by antivenom administration when indicated.1
Emergency Department Response and Safety Measures
Hospital authorities requested the removal of the snake from the premises due to the risk it posed to other patients, healthcare workers, and visitors. After initial resistance, police intervened and ensured that the snake was released outside the hospital environment.
Only after this was done did clinicians proceed with uninterrupted medical evaluation and treatment. Such actions align with standard hospital safety and infection-control protocols, which prohibit live animals in clinical care areas.
Clinical Basis of Snakebite Treatment
Snakebite is a medical emergency that can result in significant morbidity if treatment is delayed. Venom from medically important snakes in India, such as cobras, kraits, Russell’s viper, and saw-scaled viper, can cause neurotoxic, hemotoxic, or cytotoxic effects. Polyvalent antivenom, which targets venom from these species, remains the cornerstone of treatment and is administered based on clinical evidence of envenomation rather than the identification of the snake itself.2
Pre-Hospital Practices and Public Awareness
Evidence-based first aid for snakebite includes immobilization of the affected limb and rapid transport to a medical facility equipped to administer antivenom.
Attempting to capture or transport the snake is not recommended, as it increases the risk of additional bites and delays definitive care.
Public awareness initiatives consistently emphasize that early hospital presentation significantly improves outcomes, while traditional or unproven remedies may worsen prognosis.2
Broader Public Health Context
Snakebite envenoming is recognized as a neglected tropical disease, with India contributing a substantial proportion of global cases. Rural and peri-urban populations remain particularly vulnerable due to occupational exposure and limited access to timely medical care.
References
Government of India, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Standard Treatment Guidelines: Management of Snake Bite. New Delhi: MoHFW, 2016. https://nhm.gov.in/images/pdf/guidelines/nrhm-guidelines/stg/Snakebite_Full.pdf
World Health Organization. Guidelines for the Management of Snakebites. 2nd ed. Geneva: WHO, 2017. https://cdn.who.int/media/docs/default-source/searo/india/health-topic-pdf/who-guidance-on-management-of-snakebites.pdf?sfvrsn=5528d0cf_2
(Rh/SS/MSM)
