UTTAR PRADESH SNAKEBITE INITIATIVE

U.P. SNAKEBITE MITIGATION

Office of Relief Commissioner, Govt Of Uttar Pradesh

SUCCESS STORIES

Among the heartening narratives witnessed during the field visits were accounts of families who promptly sought medical care for their loved ones affected by snakebites, resulting in successful outcomes. These families demonstrated a commendable understanding of the importance of timely intervention and the efficacy of modern medical treatments in mitigating the impact of snake envenomation.

Their proactive actions not only saved lives but also served as compelling examples within their communities, inspiring others to prioritize medical intervention over alternative practices.

The experiences of these families underscored the critical role of community education and empowerment in fostering a culture of healthcare-seeking behavior, ultimately contributing to the project's overarching goal of reducing morbidity and mortality associated with snakebites.

I. 7th grade girl from Kota Gram Panchayat, Sonbhadra was working in the fields with her parents when she was suddenly bit by a Russell’s viper. The family immediately took her to CHC Dudhi for treatment, and due to complications, she was further referred to BHU. She underwent surgery and is now completely fine. Despite being advised to visit a traditional healer, the family, being well-informed about proper snakebite treatment, ensured she received appropriate medical care, which ultimately saved her life.

II. A 5th grade boy named Bikas, Sonbhadra was riding his bicycle near a water body during the festival of Holi when he was suddenly bitten by a Russell's viper. His uncle witnessed the incident and immediately took him to the community health center for treatment, rather than to a traditional healer. Thanks to this prompt medical intervention, the boy has now fully recovered.

III. Ankur Verma, a Community Health Officer of Dariyabad CHC, also a trainee of the snakebite management programmme was bit by a snake at his home during the night. Since, he underwent the training already, he knew what was to be done after the snakebite. Therefore, when the snakebite happened, he tried to take a photo of a snake but he could not, so after that instead of doing anything by himself he informed his family members and straight away went to the district hospital for treatment. He received proper treatment and the ASV (anti-venom) and later he recovered in some time.

IV. Ashish, a farmer by profession, one day while working in the fields, a snake bit him. Thanks to the awareness he gained from street plays (nukkad nataks), posters, and pamphlets during a pilot project, he knew how to handle snakebites. Experiencing a panic attack immediately after the bite, he asked his friends, who were with him at the time, to took him to the district hospital for primary treatment and anti-venom. Following this primary care, he recovered fully and resumed living his life normally.