Healthcare gaps worsen snakebite incidents in North AP dists
Snakebite incidents
in parts of Vizianagaram district are reaching alarming levels, with rural farmers facing a growing threat, especially during the rainy season.Each year, the district records an average of 600 to 700 snakebite cases, leading to significant fatalities and long-term disabilities.
At least 10 people lose their lives to snakebites annually.A combination of inadequate healthcare facilities, poor road connectivity, and a lack of anti-venom at several primary hospitals has exacerbated the crisis in both Vizianagaram and Parvathipuram Manyam districts, according to CPM leader KS Murthy.Data from the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) reveals that Andhra Pradesh reported more than 1,700 snakebite-related deaths between 2018 and 2022, with farmers being the most affected.Rokkam Kiran Kumar, president of Vizag-based Snake Saver Society, notes that Russell's vipers and cobras are responsible for most fatalities, while a few other snake species contribute to additional deaths in northern Andhra Pradesh.The type of snakebite determines the nature of toxins introduced into the body, which can lead to respiratory paralysis, internal bleeding, muscle breakdown, organ failure, and, ultimately, death. Medical experts warn that without swift intervention, victims can succumb within hours.Despite assurances from health officials that adequate anti-venom vials and essential medicines are available at healthcare facilities, they urge families of snakebite victims to transport patients as quickly as possible to medical centers to improve chances of survival.
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