Spike in snakebite cases alarms Cuttack: 18 cases in 48 hours, six villages affected

A sudden spike in snakebite incidents has gripped Narasinghpur block in Cuttack district, where 18 cases have been reported within just two days, raising concerns among residents and health officials alike. 

Sources reported that twelve people were bitten on Friday alone, with six of them currently undergoing treatment at the Narasinghpur Community Health Centre.

The victims hail from the rural pockets of Bahali, Phulapada, Mandatotha, Kathakhuntu, Jayamangala, and Sagar, all situated within the block.

While no critical cases or fatalities have been reported so far, the volume and pace of the cases point to a pattern that cannot be ignored.

Reports also added that all the affected 18 patients received antivenom treatment and supportive care, with hospital staff working around the clock. Health teams have been dispatched to the affected areas to monitor the situation, educate local residents, and assist in identifying possible environmental triggers.

“The rainy season has led to this surge of snake bite cases. Snakes seek respite in human shelters, and people living in huts and thatched roof houses are most vulnerable,” said attending physician Dr Gurugaurav Das of Narsinghpur Hospital.

Das, however, cautioned that all snakebite cases should be reported immediately. “All hospitals here are equipped with anti-venom and primary care facilities. The faster a person seeks medical care, the better their chances of survival and recovery,” he added.

Statewide Health Systems Already on Alert

Notably, this wave of snakebite cases comes amid heightened health preparedness across Odisha.

Earlier in June, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi convened a high-level review meeting at Lok Seva Bhavan following a diarrhoea outbreak in six districts, including Cuttack.

The government credited coordinated efforts by the Health Department and allied agencies for bringing the diarrhoea outbreak under control, with 3,892 reported cases, 3,543 recoveries, and 254 still under treatment. However, the Chief Minister has instructed health institutions to remain on high alert until Dussehra, citing vulnerability to seasonal and rural health risks.