Close on the heels of Karnataka making snakebite cases and deaths notifiable, a first for any State in the country, the Centre is considering the establishment of a dedicated Snakebite Helpline (15400).
Designed to serve as a lifeline in times of crisis, the helpline aims to assist affected individuals and communities amid the disturbing rise in snakebite cases and fatalities in India.
This much-needed effort comes in response to alarming statistics, revealing between 81,000 and 138,000 annual deaths attributed to snakebites, alongside a staggering 400,000 cases of amputations and permanent disabilities resulting from snakebite envenoming.
The innovative initiative promises swift intervention and support for individuals and communities grappling with snakebite emergencies and is set to be piloted in five states: Puducherry, Madhya Pradesh, Assam, Andhra Pradesh, and Delhi.
The Government aims to halve the mortality and disability associated with snakebite envenoming by 2030 in India. To achieve this goal, Apurva Chandra, Union Health Secretary, launched a National Action Plan for Prevention and Control of Snakebite Envenoming (NAP-SE) in India, along with an array of Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials.
These materials will serve as invaluable tools for raising awareness, disseminating critical information, and empowering communities to take proactive measures against snakebite, a neglected tropical disease.
Regarding the proposed helpline, a senior official said individuals bitten by snakes can call the helpline for immediate guidance on administering first aid and seeking medical attention.
They can also receive assistance in identifying the species of snake encountered and determining whether it is venomous or harmless. The helpline will offer reassurance, emotional support, and advice on coping strategies for individuals who may feel anxious or panicked after a snake encounter, even if they have not been bitten.
The Snakebite Helpline represents a forward-looking approach to public health, ensuring that no life is lost or altered irreversibly due to lack of timely intervention. With the notification of snakebite envenoming by the Karnataka Government, all hospitals, medical colleges (teaching hospitals), and private facilities are mandated to record all snakebite cases and deaths on the Integrated Health Information Portal (IHIP).
