Urgent advisory issued as snakebite incidents surge in flood-prone areas of Odisha

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

Also Read: Flood threat recedes in Odisha as river levels drop below ‘danger mark’

According to sources, the Director of Public Health, Dr. Nilakantha Mishra, held discussions with District Chief Medical Officers (CDMOs) of Bhadrak, Balasore, and Mayurbhanj districts to ensure increased preparedness.

All Community Health Centres (CHCs) and Primary Health Centres (PHCs) in these districts have been supplied with anti-venom to address the surge in snakebite incidents. Authorities have advised immediate medical consultation if bitten, as prompt treatment is crucial to survival. They emphasised on Golden Hour of snakebite for effective medical care.

The ‘golden hour’ in the context of snakebites refers to the crucial first hour (or sometimes up to three hours) after a venomous bite where prompt medical intervention, specifically anti-venom administration, is most effective in preventing severe complications.

This period is critical for minimising the neurotoxicity and myotoxicity, and for early diagnosis. Besides, expert advice is very important during this time to save a life.

Notably, in the past three years, snakebite cases and fatalities have been on the rise across the State. In 2021, Odisha saw 2,280 snakebite cases, resulting in 844 deaths. This number increased to 4,855 cases and 1,001 deaths in 2022.

The State has reported a staggering 9,325 cases in 2023, with 16 fatalities. Last year, 16,682 snakebite incidents were recorded, signalling the ongoing crisis.

“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 of Public Health stated.