San Diego Family Faces $300K Medical Bill After Toddler's Rattlesnake Bite

The high cost of antivenom and hospital markups have left the family with significant financial burdens despite insurance coverage.

The toddler, Brigland Pfeffer, was bitten by a rattlesnake in his backyard and required emergency antivenom treatment.
His medical treatment included multiple vials of Anavip antivenom, two ambulance rides, and a stay in pediatric intensive care.
The total medical bill reached nearly $300,000, with the antivenom alone costing over $213,000 due to hospital markups.
Insurance negotiations reduced some costs, but the family still faces out-of-pocket expenses exceeding $18,500.
Brigland has recovered but suffers from nerve damage and scar tissue, prompting the family to install snake fencing around their property.