Punjab aims to reduce the number of snakebite deaths to half by 2030: Ghanshyam Thori

Chandigarh (The Uttam Hindu): One day state level training was organised under the National Program for the Prevention of Snakebites and Envenoming (NPSE) here in Chandigarh.MD NHM Ghanshyam Thori was the chief guest while Deputy Director Dr Surinderpal Kaur , AD Dr Surinder Kaur also delivered their keynote address during the training.The training was attended by District Nodal Officers and Medical Officers from all over the state.

MD NHM Ghanshyam Thori motivated the participants for successful implementation of the programme and also assured his complete support to the programme.He also emphasized that under this programme,Punjab aims to halve the number of snakebite deaths by 2030 ."people should come forward and approach the nearest government health facility as anti-snake venom is available under the Essential Drug List and it is totally free of cost." he added. Deputy Director Dr Surinderpal Kaur in her inaugural address informed that in the year 2023, a total of 2693 snakebite cases were reported in government facilities. The total deaths recorded in 2023 due to snake bite were 54, out of which 13 deaths were from urban areas and 41 deaths were from rural areas. The NPSE was implemented in the year 2023.

During the morning session of the training, Joint Director NCDC MoHFW Dr Ajit D. Shewale said all the state/UTs should prepare a state action plan.He applauded the steps taken by the state of Punjab for strengthening the management of snakebite.He also emphasised that community awareness is the key for prevention of snakebite and people need to be educated on first aid, support during transfer to hospital and myth around snake bites should be busted.

Assistant Professor, CMC Vellore Dr Mohan Jambugulam trained the participants in detail regarding the clinical management of snakebite envenoming. State Program Officer NPSE Dr Preeti Thawre exhorted the participants to work efficiently in order to achieve the goals of the programme.

Box:

If you or someone else is bitten by a snake:

Do's

>Remove constricting clothing: Take off any rings, watches, belts, or tight clothing from the bite area.

>Clean & cover the wound: Wash the bite with soap and water. Cover the wound with a clean dry bandage.

>Seek medical care: Go to the nearest hospital as soon as possible.

>Take note of the snake: If possible, try to remember the snake's color and shape, or take a picture from a safe distance.

Don'ts

>Applying a tourniquet: This can cause loss of limbs.

>Applying ice: Avoid putting ice or a cold compress on the bite.

>Cutting the bite: Do not cut the bite or try to remove the venom through suction.

>Seeking treatment from traditional faith healers: Do not approach religious priests or faith healers for treatment.

>Giving pain medication: Avoid giving the victim aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen sodium, as these can increase bleeding.

>Trying to catch the snake: Do not try to catch or kill the snake.