Snake bites sleeping tourist in Pau after sliding into his T-shirt
The man was taking a nap outside in grass in the Aspe Valley. It is thought he may have moved and scared the snake, which was probably seeking shade
The man was possibly bitten by an asp viper, common in the south-west of France
Dan_Koleska/Shutterstock
A holiday-maker was left in a critical condition after being bitten by a snake that slid into his T-shirt as he took a nap outside in south-west France.
The man, 49, stopped for a siesta on grass near Lescun, Béarn, a popular destination for summer tourists, while on a walk with family on Sunday (August 11).
Whilst asleep the snake slid into his T-shirt, possibly seeking refuge from the sun. It then bit him on the chest, giving the man an anaphylactic shock, as he proved to be severely allergic to the snake’s venom.
It is thought he may have moved and scared the snake.
Emergency services called to the scene had to stabilise the man before transporting him to hospital in Pau via helicopter.
An update on the man’s health has not been given since Sunday.
Snakes ‘rarely’ bite humans
Firefighters believe the man was bitten by an asp viper (vipère aspic), which is common in the region.
The snake is usually skittish, and flees at most movements, sounds or vibrations, especially those caused by humans.
Bites from asp vipers can be fatal with around 4% of bites ending in death if they are not treated.
Around 1,000 cases of snake bites are recorded per year in France, with hikers the most often bitten.
You can read what to do if bitten in this article: Snakes in France: what kinds are there, where and what to do if bitten
