Two die from snakebites while sleeping at home in Odisha

In two separate incidents in Odisha’s Kandhamal district, two persons lost their lives after being bitten by venomous snakes while sleeping at home last night, police sources said on Wednesday. Despite being rushed to hospitals, both succumbed to the bites, causing panic in their respective villages.

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According to the sources, two people have died due to snakebites in Kandhamal district in separate but eerily similar night-time incidents. Both victims were attacked while sleeping inside their homes.

The first incident has occurred in Khaliberana village under Khajuripada police limits. A man named Manas Hans was bitten by a venomous snake during the night while sleeping. His screams alerted his family members, who quickly rushed him to the district headquarters hospital in Phulbani. However, despite medical efforts, he died under treatment.

In the second incident in a village under Gochhapada police limits, another man identified as Nima Bindhani was similarly bitten by a venomous snake while he was sleeping at home. Unfortunately, he too did not survive.

Both deaths have sent shockwaves through the local communities. Residents are now urging local authorities to launch awareness campaigns and ensure quick availability of anti-venom and emergency medical care in rural areas.

The number of snakebite cases has risen substantially following recent floods, with the Health Department taking steps today to mitigate loss of life due to snakebite. Authorities urged residents in affected districts to seek immediate medical help if bitten.

“We appeal to people to immediately come to nearby hospitals in case of snakebites, rather than relying on traditional medicine. After a snake-bitten person comes to the hospital, we usually verify two things – whether the snake was poisonous or non-poisonous,” Director of Public Health Mishra expressed while briefing mediapersons.

“In case of a poisonous snake, immediate medical care is provided to the affected person. If it is a non-poisonous one, then we counsel the person. At times, patients die due to excessive fear, even in the case of non-poisonous snakes,” the Director stated.