Visual identification and special training: Kerala doctors to study snake species to improve treatment accuracy

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Kerala Health Department has introduced a strategic action plan aimed at significantly reducing deaths caused by snakebites across the state. Health Minister Veena George announced that the initiative will focus on decentralised access to treatment and specialised training for medical staff. Currently, life-saving anti-venom is stocked at 301 medical facilities statewide, comprising 151 government and 150 private hospitals. To further strengthen this network, the government plans to extend anti-venom availability to primary and family health centres in remote regions, ensuring that patients in rural areas receive immediate care without the need for long-distance travel.

A key component of this plan involves the identification of "Red-Flagged Institutions," which are hospitals that frequently handle snakebite cases. These centres will receive enhanced infrastructure and resources to manage emergencies more effectively. Furthermore, the department is prioritising clinical expertise; doctors will undergo sessions to accurately identify snake species through visual aids, while nursing staff will receive specialised training in snakebite management. By combining improved logistics with professional skill development, the state aims to ensure a more robust and timely response to snakebite incidents.