KKN Gurugram Desk | Renowned snake rescuer Murliwale Hausla has once again captured public attention—not for saving a reptile, but for surviving a venomous cobra bite that could have ended his life. The incident occurred on June 4, 2025, during a rescue operation in Chaktali village, Jalalpur, where Hausla was attempting to free a cobra trapped in a net.
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Despite being bitten by one of the most dangerous snakes in India, Hausla reached a hospital within 38 minutes, received timely medical care, and was discharged after two days of treatment. However, what has sparked concern among medical professionals and wildlife experts is not just the bite—but what he did immediately after.
What Happened: The Cobra Strike in Jalalpur
During his rescue operation, the snake—agitated and entangled—struck out and bit Hausla on the hand. A video of the incident, now viral on social media, shows him reacting quickly but also making a move that many consider instinctive yet highly dangerous—he tried to suck the venom out of the bite wound with his mouth.
The Mistake: Sucking Out Snake Venom is NOT First Aid
In several interviews following his recovery, Murliwale Hausla admitted to attempting to extract blood and venom using his mouth—a technique widely believed to be helpful but scientifically debunked and potentially life-threatening.
So, why is this method wrong?
Medical experts and toxicologists have consistently warned against using one’s mouth to extract snake venom, and here’s why:
1. Venom Spreads Rapidly into the Bloodstream
Once bitten, venom enters the bloodstream within seconds. Trying to remove it manually is both ineffective and too late.
2. Oral Wounds Create a Secondary Risk
If the person sucking the venom has even a minor cut or ulcer in the mouth, the venom can enter their bloodstream, putting two lives at risk—the victim and the rescuer.
3. Risk of Bacterial Infection
The human mouth contains millions of bacteria. Introducing these into an open wound (especially after spitting out blood) increases the risk of serious infections, such as sepsis or gangrene.
4. Loss of Precious Time
Snake venom acts fast, and every minute lost on ineffective methods can reduce survival chances. Hausla admitted he had roughly 40 minutes to reach medical help and succeeded in doing so within 38 minutes. In his words:
“I shouldn’t have wasted even a minute trying to suck out the venom. Getting to the hospital quickly saved my life.”
Public Health Alert: Why People Still Believe in Venom Extraction
Despite repeated awareness campaigns, the myth of venom suction still prevails in rural and even urban India. Influenced by films, traditional healers, and misinformation, many believe this technique can reduce venom absorption. However, the World Health Organization (WHO), Indian Medical Association, and toxicology experts have long debunked this belief.
Dr. Arvind Chaturvedi, emergency medicine specialist:
“In cases of venomous snake bites, what matters is immobilization, calmness, and reaching a hospital quickly. Suction only worsens the condition.”
Who is Murliwale Hausla?
Murliwale Hausla is a well-known wildlife conservationist and snake catcher from Bihar, with thousands of rescues under his belt. He has been featured in regional news and social media for his fearless work handling venomous snakes, often with bare hands.
Despite his experience, this incident proved that even experts can fall prey to outdated practices during moments of panic or adrenaline.
What Should You Do After a Snake Bite?
Correct First Aid for Snake Bites:
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Keep the victim calm and still – This slows venom spread.
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Immobilize the affected limb – Use a splint; keep it below heart level.
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Remove tight clothing or jewelry near the bite.
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Do NOT wash the bite site – It may help identify the venom.
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Do NOT apply ice or tourniquets.
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Do NOT attempt to suck out the venom.
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Rush to the nearest hospital with anti-venom availability.
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Take note of the snake’s appearance – color, size, pattern (from a safe distance or photo).
Avoid These Myths:
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Slicing the wound
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Burning the area
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Applying herbal pastes or cow dung
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Using religious chants as treatment
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Relying on untrained snake charmers
The Bigger Issue: Snakebite Deaths in India
India records the highest number of snakebite deaths globally, with over 58,000 fatalities annually (as per The Lancet). Most of these occur due to:
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Delay in medical attention
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Superstitions and incorrect first aid
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Lack of access to antivenom
This makes education, awareness, and training for field-level rescue workers absolutely critical.
The Role of Social Media: Awareness vs. Misinformation
The video of Murliwale Hausla’s incident went viral across platforms like X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and WhatsApp, sparking debates around:
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The risks involved in wildlife rescue
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The thin line between bravery and recklessness
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The urgent need for proper training and safety gear
Many users praised his courage, but doctors and wildlife experts warned against glorifying risky behavior without necessary medical protocols.
Hausla’s Statement After Recovery
Following his discharge, Hausla gave a statement urging others to learn from his mistake:
“I’ve always believed in saving lives—both human and animal. But this time, I almost lost my own. I want people to know: sucking out venom doesn’t work. Please rush to a hospital. Time is everything.”
Murliwale Hausla’s survival story is a testament to both his courage and the importance of timely medical help. However, it also highlights a dangerous gap in public knowledge about snakebite treatment.
As climate change and urban expansion bring humans and snakes into closer contact, snakebite cases are likely to rise. Ensuring awareness, preparedness, and access to first aid can save thousands of lives.
