Snakebite emergency? Call 108: Kerala strengthens antivenom network

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Health Minister Veena George has announced that the “KANIV-108” (Kerala Ambulance Network for Injured Victims) will now facilitate the streamlined transport of snakebite victims to hospitals equipped with anti-snake venom (ASV).

Key emergency protocols

To ensure patient safety and improve survival rates, the Health Department has implemented the following measures:

• Verified Transport: KANIV-108 ambulances will only transport victims to hospitals after confirming that ASV is currently in stock.
• Advance Notification: Ambulance teams will alert receiving hospitals ahead of arrival, allowing medical staff to prepare for immediate treatment.
• Expert Care: Experienced Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) on board will provide essential first aid and continuous monitoring during transit.

Availability of anti-snake venom

Currently, 146 hospitals across the state are stocked with antivenom. While all hospitals from the taluk level and above carry the treatment, it is also available at select Community Health Centres (CHCs). The Health Department has provided the KANIV-108 team with a comprehensive, real-time list of these facilities to prevent any time being wasted at hospitals without ASV.

First Aid Dos and Don'ts

The Minister urged the public to contact 108 immediately and follow these life-saving steps while waiting for the ambulance:

1. Stay Calm: Keep the victim as quiet and calm as possible. Anxiety increases the heart rate, which causes venom to spread faster through the bloodstream.
2. Limit Movement: Do not allow the victim to walk or run. Move the patient only by lifting them or using a stretcher.
3. Immobilise the Area: Keep the bitten limb still and at or below heart level.
4. Avoid Tight Bandages: Never apply a restrictive tourniquet or bandage the wound excessively, as this can cause localized tissue damage.

Medical compliance

Following a high-level meeting chaired by the Director of the Health Department, all medical facilities have been instructed to administer ASV strictly according to established protocols based on symptoms and laboratory results.