Authorities have sought to quell fears after hundreds of snakes escaped from a flooded farm in south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region after Typhoon Maysak damaged the facility, with local hospitals saying antivenom supplies remain fully stocked and sufficient to meet any potential demand.
The incident occurred in Guangxi's Hengzhou after heavy rainfall breached the embankment of a local reservoir, triggering flooding in the surrounding area, and seeing an estimated 800 to 900 snakes escaping from the farm on Monday, though most are believed to be non-venomous.
Local reports said that one villager had been bitten and was receiving emergency treatment, while residents from neighboring villages organized a volunteer snake-catching team to help contain the situation. Using fishing nets and other equipment, the team has been working to locate and capture the escaped reptiles.
Amid concerns, the head of the pharmacy department at Hengzhou People's Hospital, which serves as a designated snakebite treatment center, confirmed that key medical supplies, including antivenom, remain well stocked. Cobra antivenom, in particular, is kept as a priority reserve item.
"We have four types of antivenom in stock — for pit vipers, five-step vipers, many-banded kraits, and cobras. Cobra antivenom is what we're most focused on right now, and we keep the most of it. But all four are part of our regular stockpiles," said Jiang Xin, chief pharmacist and pharmacy director at the Hengzhou People's Hospital.
Jiang further clarified there are no shortages, but said reserves can be brought in quickly from Guangxi's regional capital of Nanning if required.
"Given the current situation, we have significantly increased our stockpiles. Our reserves are sufficient for any emergency that may arise. And if needed, Nanning can replenish our supplies within 24 hours. So our inventory is more than adequate right now," said Jiang.
Snake escape sparks fear in China's Guangxi, but hospital says antivenom supplies adequate
