Assam: Devajit Moran stable; expert clarifies treatment decisions after king cobra bite
Reported by Manoj Kumar Ojha
Guwahati: Amid social media speculation and misleading claims about the treatment of wildlife rescuer and environmental activist Devajit Moran after a King Cobra bite on Friday, snakebite expert Surajit Giri has issued a clarification on the medical decisions taken during the emergency.
According to Surajit Giri, Moran was first taken to Tinsukia Civil Hospital, where antivenom treatment was started and arrangements were made to shift him to Assam Medical College for intensive care.
However, on the way, he reportedly developed severe discomfort and chest pain, after which doctors reassessed his condition.
Surajit Giri said King Cobra bites are rare in India, with limited documented cases. He stated that while the venom is considered less potent than some other cobra species, the large quantity of venom injected can lead to rapid deterioration if advanced care is not available.
He added that there is no species-specific antivenom for King Cobra bites in India. Treatment is based on general antivenom protocols along with supportive care, monitoring, and respiratory support when required.
Given the risk of sudden respiratory failure and the lack of ICU facilities at the district hospital, doctors decided to shift Moran to Tata Hospital in Chabua, where ventilator support was available.
Surajit Giri described the decision as a “calculated risk” taken in the patient’s best interest.
After arrival, Moran was given 20 vials of antivenom and kept under continuous observation. Doctors said that more than 24 hours after the bite, he was stable and recovering, with discharge expected soon.
Surajit Giri urged the public not to spread misinformation and said all decisions were taken to maximise the patient’s chances of survival.