1 taken to hospital after rattlesnake bite in Somerset County, 911 says

Publish date: 2024-04-10

LINCOLN TOWNSHIP, Pa. (WJAC) — Officials say one person was taken to the hospital Friday afternoon after being bitten by a rattlesnake in Somerset County.

Emergency dispatchers say the snake attack happened near the intersection of Maggie and Hall Springs roads in Lincoln Township around 12:30 p.m.

The condition of the victim is unknow at this time but officials say the individual was taken to Somerset Hospital.

Pennsylvania is home to two species of rattlesnake: The Eastern massasauga and the timber rattlesnake.

Health officials at Geisinger say rattlesnakes aren’t aggressive but will bite if they are startled or feel threatened.

According to Geisinger, here’s what to do if you’ve been bitten by a rattlesnake:

  • Don’t panic. Staying calm not only helps you think more clearly, but it slows the venom’s spread through your bloodstream.
  • Call 911 or get to an emergency room as soon as possible. Most people recover fully from rattlesnake bites if they’re treated quickly.
  • Lie or sit down while waiting for emergency responders. Keep the bitten body part below the level of your heart.
  • Wash the bite with warm, soapy water and cover it with gauze or a Band-Aid.

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