Home / Health / Health Minister Pledges Zero Snakebite Deaths
Health Minister Pledges Zero Snakebite Deaths
25 May
Summary
- State aims for zero snakebite deaths annually.
- Snakebites and rabies cause significant loss of lives.
- New mobile app aids in locating snake catchers and hospitals.
Kerala Health Minister K. Muraleedharan announced a national effort to achieve zero snakebite deaths in the state. This initiative, discussed at a seminar on Snakebite Envenoming Management, addresses the concerning reality that snakebites and rabies still cause significant mortality.
On average, 20 people die annually from snakebites in the state, with a notable number of victims being children. Health workers are urged not to refuse anti-snake venom administration due to potential side effects. Facilities for proper administration and patient observation will be established at peripheral hospitals.
The seminar also featured the SARPA mobile app, developed by the Forest Department, which helps users find snake catchers and hospitals. Discussions covered snake behavior, surveillance systems, limitations of current antivenom, and emerging treatments. Experts noted that children and marginalized communities disproportionately suffer snakebite deaths due to factors like poor housing and delayed treatment.
The need for next-generation treatments is highlighted, as current polyvalent anti-snake venom is not universally effective. The Kerala University of Health Sciences is committed to building the necessary medical research expertise to support the goal of zero snakebite deaths.
