The recent study by the Centre for Global Health Research (CGHR) at the University of Toronto, partnered with India and the United Kingdom, has brought to light some startling figures on snakebite deaths in India. The research indicates that there were 1.2 million deaths due to snakebites in India between 2000 to 2019, averaging 58,000 annually. This contrasts with a previous large-scale survey conducted in 2011 titled ‘Snakebite Mortality in India: A Nationally Representative Mortality Survey’, which estimated an annual death toll of 46,000.
Data Analysis: An Examination of Snakebite Deaths in India
Half of all reported snakebite fatalities happened during the monsoon season, from June to September. Around 70% of these deaths occurred in rural, low altitude areas of several Indian states including Bihar, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Rajasthan and Gujarat. The highest numbers of annual snakebite deaths were recorded in Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, and Bihar.
Snakebite deaths were predominately rural (97%), more common in males (59%) than females (41%), and most prevalent in the 15-29 year age group (25%). The overall lifetime risk of snakebite fatality in India is around 1 in 250, but this rate increases to 1 in 100 in certain regions. The study revealed that most instances of envenomation were caused by Russell’s vipers, followed by Kraits and Cobras.
Immediate Action Required to Address Snakebite Crisis
Given the significant burden of snakebite mortality in India, and the World Health Organization’s (WHO) classification of snakebite as a high-priority Neglected Tropical Disease (NTD), there is a crucial need for immediate action.
Snake Safe Harvest Practices: Protecting Rural Farmers
Rural farmers and their families make up the majority of snakebite victims. The implementation of simple ‘snake-safe’ harvest practices could significantly reduce the risk of bites. Suggested measures include wearing rubber boots and gloves during work, using mosquito nets, and ensuring good visibility with rechargeable torches or mobile phone flashlights.
Snake Species Database: A Tool for Identification and Safety
Creating a comprehensive database detailing snake habitats, clear photographs and geographical distribution could aid in distinguishing venomous and non-venomous snake species, promoting safety and awareness among rural communities.
The Role of Anti-Venom in Reducing Snakebite Fatalities
India has the capability to produce significant volumes of anti-venom. However, current Indian anti-venoms neutralise venom from only the spectacled cobra, common krait, Russell’s viper and saw-scaled viper. This leaves 12 other snake species causing fatal bites which are not covered by current anti-venoms. Anti-venom is a medication produced from antibodies made by animals that have been injected with venom, and is used to prevent snake venom from binding to tissues and causing severe blood, tissue, or nervous system problems.