Srinagar, March 21: The number of snakebite cases in Jammu and Kashmir has seen a sharp increase over the past three years, rising from 636 cases in 2022 to 1,243 in 2024, according to data from the Integrated Disease Surveillance Program (IDSP).
The alarming rise in snakebite incidents has also led to an increase in fatalities, with 16 deaths reported in 2024, compared to 13 in 2023. The surge has raised concerns about the availability of medical treatment and public awareness regarding snakebite management.
Ladakh has remained completely unaffected, reporting zero snakebite cases and deaths in the last three years. Experts attribute this to the region’s high-altitude climate, which is unsuitable for venomous snakes.
With a 95% increase in snakebite cases in J&K between 2022 and 2024, the government has taken steps to address the issue. The National Action Plan for Prevention and Control of Snakebite Envenoming (NAPSE) has been introduced to enhance awareness and improve medical response.
The initiative focuses on training healthcare professionals in snakebite treatment, ensuring a steady supply of Anti-Snake Venom (ASV) in district and sub-district hospitals, and conducting public awareness campaigns. These efforts include distributing booklets, posters, and educational videos in regional languages to help people understand how to prevent snake bites and administer first aid.
