Jharkhand Sees Surge in Snakebite Cases: 9,438 Incidents Since 2022, State Health Department Steps Up Measures
मुख्य बातें
- •Jharkhand recorded 9,438 snakebite cases and 79 deaths from 2022 to April 2026, with cases rising annually.
- •Snakebite cases have been declared a notifiable disease, and all healthcare facilities must follow national management protocols.
- •Over 250 snake species exist in Jharkhand, but only 25% are venomous; most deaths result from panic, delayed treatment, and reliance on superstitions.
- •Anti-snake venom serum has been added to the essential medicines list, and all public health facilities must maintain adequate stock.
- •The National Action Plan aims to cut snakebite deaths and disabilities by 50% by 2030, with focused community awareness campaigns underway.
Jharkhand has recorded a sharp increase in snakebite cases over the past four years, with 9,438 incidents and 79 deaths reported from 2022 to April 2026, according to data from the State Health Department. The figures show a concerning upward trend: 392 cases in 2022; 1,647 cases with 15 deaths in 2023; 2,760 cases with 22 deaths in 2024; 4,078 cases with 26 deaths in 2025; and 561 cases reported till April 2026. In response, the State Health Department has directed all healthcare facilities to strictly follow the national snakebite management protocol issued by the Union Ministry of Health.
