Rattlesnake Bite Shocks Family With $300k Bill (19/20)

For those bitten by rattlesnakes, 10–44% will have lasting injuries; they may lose all or part of a finger or lose the ability to use it. Rattlesnakes, the largest venomous snakes in the US, can be found across the country sunning near logs, boulders, or open areas, and do not always rattle before biting, the CDC notes.

As not all emergency rooms carry antivenom, it’s recommended to go to a large hospital. Depending on the severity of the bite, initial treatment may begin at an urgent care facility while arrangements are made for transfer to a hospital equipped to handle snake bites. 

Since being bitten in May, Brigland’s hand has healed, though nerve damage and scar tissue have left his right thumb much weaker. His family has installed snake fencing around their yard.