Tamil Nadu Declares Snakebites Notifiable
Tamil Nadu: The Tamil Nadu government has officially declared snakebite envenomation a notifiable disease under the Tamil Nadu Public Health Act of 1939, marking a significant step to address the growing public health challenge of snakebites in the state. A Government Order (G.O.) to this effect was issued by the Health and Family Welfare Department on November 4, and a formal notification was published in the Tamil Nadu Government Gazette on November 6.
Snakebite envenomation, a potentially life-threatening condition caused by venomous snake bites, remains a major health concern, especially in rural areas and regions where snakes are endemic. The condition is often preventable but continues to pose serious risks to vulnerable populations such as agricultural workers, children, and people living in tropical and subtropical regions.
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The World Health Organization (WHO) has recognized snakebites as a global public health issue and launched a comprehensive strategy to reduce the number of snakebite-related deaths and disabilities worldwide.
This new declaration comes shortly after the Indian Ministry of Health and Family Welfare released the National Action Plan for the Prevention and Control of Snakebite Envenoming earlier this year. The plan outlines the goal of halving snakebite-related deaths by 2030 through a ‘One Health’ approach, which integrates human, animal, and environmental health interventions.
By making snakebite envenomation a notifiable disease, the Tamil Nadu government aims to improve the accuracy of data collection, strengthen clinical infrastructure, and ensure the prompt and effective distribution of anti-snake venom. This measure is expected to enhance prevention efforts, reduce mortality rates, and improve the overall treatment facilities for snakebite victims across the state.
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Under the new directive, both government and private hospitals are now obligated to report all cases of snakebites, as well as any related fatalities, to the authorities. The reports will be integrated into the State’s Integrated Health Information Platform, which is part of the Integrated Disease Surveillance Program. This mandatory reporting system is designed to address the significant underreporting of snakebite cases and deaths, ensuring better surveillance and more effective public health responses.
The Tamil Nadu government’s move is seen as a crucial step in improving the state’s ability to respond to snakebite incidents and providing timely interventions to save lives.
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