Man, 72, in Serious Condition After Snakebite in Golan Heights

A 72-year-old man from Buqata was hospitalized in serious condition on Monday after being bitten on the hand by a snake in an agricultural field near Ein Zivan in the Golan Heights. Paramedics evacuated the man, who was found to be disoriented. Dr. Hussein Bushnak, acting director of the emergency room at Ziv Medical Center, stated that upon arrival, the patient was very confused and suffering from vomiting, excessive sweating, and very low blood pressure. He received anti-venom treatment, after which his condition improved. Following initial stabilization, the man was transferred to the general intensive care unit, where his condition is now described as serious but stable.

This incident in the Golan Heights adds to a series of snakebite cases recorded across Israel in recent months. In late September, a 17-year-old yeshiva student was bitten by a venomous snake in Ashdod and evacuated in stable condition. In August, two children were bitten by snakes within two weeks; one, a 12-year-old boy, was bitten by a viper while playing with friends. Medical professionals advise immediate ambulance calls for snakebites, keeping the victim calm and still, immobilizing the bitten limb, and removing tight clothing or jewelry. Remembering the snake's appearance can aid in diagnosis and treatment.

Doctors note that snake activity increases with rising temperatures during summer and autumn, with venom glands being particularly active. They recommend caution, especially in the morning and evening when snakes are more active, and advise against reaching into unseen areas.