Anti-venom alone not enough, need more doctors, say government doctors

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Government doctors have said that simply releasing a list of hospitals with anti-venom for snakebite treatment is not enough, and that proper treatment facilities must be ensured. The doctors came forward amid rising concerns over frequent snakebite deaths. Many allege that several of these deaths occurred because treatment was denied at taluk-level hospitals.

Doctors warned that giving anti-venom in hospitals without proper facilities such as ventilators, ICUs, and monitoring systems can be dangerous. Severe allergic reactions can occur within minutes and may even lead to death.

They stressed that hospitals must be equipped to handle such emergencies, including facilities to manage severe allergic reactions. Life-saving equipment, round-the-clock doctors, ventilators, and ICU support are essential to treat complications like breathing difficulty and cardiac arrest.

The Kerala Government Medical Officers' Association (KGMOA) said that many taluk hospitals lack sufficient doctors to monitor patients properly. This is why patients are often referred to medical colleges.

The family of eight-year-old Dakshal, who was bitten by a snake in Chirayinkeezhu recently, alleged that he was taken to the taluk hospital but was not given anti-venom. They said he died while being shifted to a medical college. It is in this context that the government doctors’ association highlighted the limitations in hospital facilities.

Doctors also pointed out that emergency departments in most government hospitals are overcrowded. Often, only one doctor is on duty, making it difficult to give proper attention to critically ill patients. With hundreds of patients to examine, it becomes nearly impossible to closely monitor those given anti-venom.

Doctors demand more staff and facilities

1. At least two doctors should be available at all times in emergency departments.
2. Temporary appointments should be made until new posts are created.
3. Doctors and staff should be able to continuously monitor snakebite patients.
4. Hospitals providing anti-venom must have ICU and ventilator facilities.