Another big cobra ‘visits’ Mvuma Hospital

Cases of wild animals straying or venturing into human beings’ living and working quarters are becoming common.

While this is popular in areas near game parks, recent events have shown the trend getting more common.

A few months ago, a crocodile was spotted in the corridors at Chiredzi District Hospital.

The reptile did not attack anyone and was captured and trans-located by the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks).

It was believed the reptile may have strayed from the nearby Chiredzi River.

Apparently, venomous cobra was seen and killed at Mvuma General Hospital on Sunday afternoon, the second big snake to be killed at the health service center in a month.

Mvuma District Medical Officer, Dr Simbarashe Maunga confirmed the incident, but dismissed reports that the snake was seen inside the hospital.

Other sources said the snake was seen near the female ward and there was commotion as patients and nurses scurried to safety.

A general, hand at the hospital took aim at the reptile and struck it once on the head thereby killing it instantly. The place near the hospital is bushy.

“It’s true that there is a snake that was seen and killed here. However, it is untrue that it was in the hospital. Someone must have killed the snake and then taken pictures of it from one of the corridors,” said Dr Maunga.

ZimParks spokesperson Tinashe Farawo said snakes are rarely found in clean, clear environments.

“No snake will creep into a clean, clear environment. We urge the public to keep their surroundings clean by practicing good waste management and cutting grass around their environs.

“You won’t find snakes where there are no hideouts. It is also advisable to use snake repellents or to use indigenous remedies to keep reptiles away from institutions and homes,” said Farawo. -The Mirror/ Zwnews