News Summary
Ethan White, an EMT from Dare County, is recovering after a cottonmouth snake bite while walking his dog in Nags Head Woods Preserve. He was treated with CroFab antivenom after an allergic reaction to the first treatment. As the community supports him through a GoFundMe campaign totaling over $12,000, White continues his education in emergency medical services and remains optimistic about his recovery and future as a paramedic.
Nags Head, North Carolina – Ethan White, a dedicated EMT from Dare County, is on the road to recovery after suffering a bite from a venomous cottonmouth snake while he was walking his dog in Nags Head Woods Preserve. The incident occurred last Saturday morning when White stepped off the path to tie his shoe and inadvertently encountered the snake.
Upon being bitten on the hand, White likened the feeling to cutting oneself with a sharp knife. His fiancée quickly sprang into action, transporting him to a nearby hospital, which marked the beginning of an extensive treatment process. Initially, White experienced an allergic reaction to the first type of antivenom provided, requiring further intervention.
White was subsequently transferred to Norfolk, where he received four treatments of CroFab antivenom. He spent two days in the intensive care unit and one additional day in a medical-surgical unit before being discharged. Now recovering at home, White is consulting with a hand specialist to formulate a suitable treatment plan for the injured hand.
While he currently retains the ability to articulate the base joint of his hand, White experiences limited mobility in the remaining areas. Depending on the findings from the hand specialist, he may require surgery or may be allowed to heal naturally.
To assist with his recovery-related expenses, White’s mother initiated a GoFundMe campaign, which has successfully raised over $12,000. White expressed his appreciation for the overwhelming support from the community during this difficult time, underscoring the importance of local kindness in his journey toward healing.
White is also actively pursuing his education in emergency medical services, as he studies to become a paramedic. Despite this setback, he remains determined and optimistic about his professional future. He takes inspiration from a chief who has navigated a similar injury yet continues to perform essential duties effectively, even after losing a finger.
The bite incident has prompted the National Park Service (NPS) to caution both residents and visitors in the Outer Banks region to exercise heightened awareness regarding snakes this season. The NPS reports that most snake encounters typically occur between April and October, coinciding with the peak activity period for both snakes and outdoor enthusiasts.
North Carolina is home to 38 species of snakes, with the majority being nonvenomous and only aggressive when provoked. However, the state is also the habitat for six venomous species: the copperhead, cottonmouth, Eastern diamondback rattlesnake, timber rattlesnake, pigmy rattlesnake, and Eastern coral snake. Understanding the characteristics and behaviors of these snakes is crucial for identifying which snakes may be venomous and for safely navigating outdoor environments.
The White family is now focused on recovery and the right path forward following this unexpected incident. As the community rallies around them, Ethan White’s story serves as an important reminder of the need for caution while enjoying the natural beauty of North Carolina.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Dare County EMT Recovering from Venomous Snake Bite
Additional Resources
- Wavy: Outer Banks EMT Bitten by Venomous Snake
- Wikipedia: Venomous Snakes
- WRAL: Officials Issue Warning about Rattlesnakes
- Google Search: Outer Banks Snake Warnings
- News Observer: Local News Article
- Google Scholar: Snake Venom Effect
- Charlotte Observer: Local News Article
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Snake Venom
- Wavy: Massive Bluefin Tuna Catches Halted
- Google News: North Carolina Snake Incidents
Author: STAFF HERE OUTER BANKS WRITER
The OBX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOBX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in the Outer Banks, Dare County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Outer Banks Seafood Festival, NC VIP Fishing Tournament, and NCBBA Red Drum Tournament. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce and Outer Banks Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in tourism, retail, and hospitality that power the local economy such as Kitty Hawk Kites, Outer Banks Mall, and Avon Fishing Pier. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HERERaleigh.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
