A nurse has died after a snake bite in Rumbek East County, Lakes State, according to local authorities
The victim, identified as Atona Majok Maker, worked at Mabor Duang Primary Health Care Center. He held a bachelor’s degree in nursing from Upper Nile University.
County Commissioner Malual Anyuon told Radio Tamazuj on Saturday that the nurse was bitten by a venomous snake on Friday night while walking home after work. The incident occurred at about 8 p.m.
Anyuon said the nurse had briefly stopped at a neighboring home before heading back to his residence, where he was attacked by the snake along the way.
“Unfortunately, the snake bit him and he died on the spot,” the commissioner said, adding that there was no time to provide medical assistance.
He said snake bites are not common in the area but occur occasionally. Last year, a similar case was reported, though the victim survived after treatment by traditional healers but was left paralyzed.
“This year, there was no chance to rescue the victim,” he said.
The commissioner urged residents to take precautions, especially at night, including wearing closed shoes or gumboots to reduce the risk of snake bites in areas without electricity.
Rumbek East County medical officer Malok Majok Mador said the nurse was alone when he was bitten and was later found lying unresponsive on a pathway by a passerby.
Residents attempted to seek help, including contacting a traditional healer, but were unable to reach him in time. The nurse was later confirmed dead.
Mador said the hospital was not informed immediately, which delayed any possible medical response.
“Even me, as the medical director, I was not informed. The hospital only received the information the following morning,” he said.
He added that antivenom treatment is available in the county but stressed that delays in reporting such incidents can be fatal.
The deceased had been assigned to Mabor Duang PHCC in 2024 after requesting a transfer from Aduel to be closer to his family.
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