Tamil Nadu declares snakebite a notifiable disease to reduce fatalities

In an effort to tackle the rising number of snakebite incidents, the Tamil Nadu government has officially classified snakebite as a notifiable disease under the Public Health Act.

This move mandates that hospitals report all snakebite cases to the state, aiming to enhance data accuracy, strengthen clinical infrastructure, and ensure an adequate supply of anti-snake venom to prevent fatalities.

As of June this year, Tamil Nadu recorded 7,300 snakebite cases, with 13 resulting deaths. In 2023, there were 19,795 reported cases and 43 fatalities, while 2022 saw 15,120 cases and 17 deaths.

Officials noted that many snakebite incidents go unreported, resulting in incomplete data. The government’s new reporting requirement seeks to close this data gap, enabling better tracking and faster allocation of anti-venom where it’s most needed.

Despite Tamil Nadu’s advanced healthcare system, the state has experienced shortages of anti-snake venom, leading to delayed treatments and, in some cases, deaths. Officials believe this initiative will address these challenges by improving availability and response, ultimately reducing snakebite-related mortality across the state.