A 36-year-old KwaZulu-Natal man is fighting for his life after being bitten by a highly venomous Chinese Red-Headed Centipede in Mhlasini last Friday. The terrifying incident unfolded inside the man’s home, where he acted quickly to protect his one-month-old baby from the dangerous creature — a decision that ultimately left him in critical condition.
According to Reaction Unit South Africa (RUSA), paramedics were dispatched to the scene at around 06:22. Upon arrival, they examined a severe bite wound on the victim’s right thumb. The man told responders that he had been lying in bed when he spotted the centipede crawling dangerously close to his infant. Fearing for the baby’s safety, he instinctively grabbed the centipede, trapping it inside a plastic bag with the intention of disposing of it outside. However, the centipede managed to bite him through the plastic, injecting venom into his hand.
Shortly after the encounter, the man began experiencing alarming symptoms. He felt nauseous and noticed swelling around his head — a sign that the venom was spreading. He was transported to Osindisweni Government Hospital (OGH), where he waited for medical attention while enduring dizziness and increasing discomfort. After a long delay, he was eventually given an injection and medication before being discharged.
But once he returned home, his condition worsened. The swelling in his head intensified, prompting him to seek help from a local doctor. Recognizing the severity of the situation, the doctor insisted that he be hospitalised immediately.
On Monday afternoon, the man arrived at Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Hospital (MGMH) in Phoenix at approximately 15:30. He was reportedly in excruciating pain and could barely function, requiring a wheelchair. Despite his critical state, he claimed that hospital staff ignored him for hours. According to the victim, nurses told him he would only receive treatment the following day. After waiting a full five hours without assistance, he left the facility without ever being treated.
The incident has raised concerns over the handling of emergency cases in public hospitals and the dangers posed by invasive, venomous species such as the Chinese Red-Headed Centipede. These centipedes are known for their aggressive nature and powerful venom, which can cause extreme pain, swelling and, in some cases, severe allergic reactions or complications requiring urgent medical intervention.
Community members have expressed shock that the man’s attempts to protect his newborn child resulted in a life-threatening situation. Calls are now growing for improved emergency response protocols and better awareness about dangerous species found in local communities.
As the victim continues receiving medical attention elsewhere, his condition remains serious. The incident stands as a stark reminder of the hidden dangers within everyday environments — and the importance of swift, effective medical care in critical situations.
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