Bay Area/ San Francisco/ Parks & Nature
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Published on July 18, 2023
Rattlesnake Bite in Napa County: Teen Victim Airlifted to HospitalAmber Wolfe on Unsplash

Calistoga faced a terrifying incident on Sunday afternoon when a 13-year-old boy was bitten by a rattlesnake, adding to the list of snake encounters reported across the Bay Area. Following the incident, the Sonoma County Sheriff's Office dispatched their rescue helicopter, "Henry-1," to aid the young victim.

Upon evaluation by paramedics at the scene, it was determined that the boy needed to be transported to the hospital quickly for treatment with anti-venom, according to Sonoma County Sheriff's Office on Facebook. While his current condition has not been disclosed, the community hopes for a speedy recovery.

This recent incident follows another rattlesnake bite case reported earlier this summer on June 7, when a 7-year-old boy was bitten in Mt. Diablo State Park and similarly airlifted to the hospital, as stated by Mercury News. The increasing heat during the summer months has led to increased snake activity in the region, causing heightened vigilance among Bay Area residents who take part in outdoor activities.

Rattlesnakes usually bite when provoked or threatened, and Mt. Diablo supervising state park ranger Cameron Morrison recommends remaining calm and keeping an eye on the ground when hiking. In addition to Morrison's suggestions, the San Francisco Chronicle also advises wearing closed-toed shoes and long pants when hiking or walking through brushy areas and woodpiles.

For those who come across a rattlesnake on their outdoor adventures, it's crucial to give it space and avoid provoking it. If bitten, remain calm, call 911, and seek medical treatment as soon as possible.