Snakebite cases more than quadruple in state in five years

Jharkhand has recorded 4,623 snakebite cases and 12 deaths till August 2026. The cases have increased sharply over the past five years.

Cases of 2026 have already surpassed the 4,078 total number of snakebite cases recorded in the state during 2025. The rising number of cases highlights the continuing public health challenges posed by snakebite during the monsoon when human-snake encounters increase in rural and remote areas.

According to the figures of the health department, the state reported 1,095 snakebite cases in 2022; 1,647 in 2023; 2,760 in 2024 and 4,078 in 2025. In the first eight months of this year, the reported number of cases rose to 4,623.

Additionally, the state has reported more than 12 deaths due to snakebite in 2026. The health department has directed health facilities to monitor Anti-Snake Venom (ASV) stocks and ensure that facilities facing shortages can obtain supplies from nearby hospitals.

The Ranchi district has 6,214 vials of ASV in stock. Garhwa reported the highest number of cases at 547 along with three deaths, while Latehar recorded 483 cases and six deaths this year till August.

Dr Rajiv Bhushan, district epidemiologist, said, “It is important to take a snakebite victim to the nearest government health centre without delay. Every minute is important following the bite.

“Victim should be kept calm, unnecessary movement should be minimised and the person should be transported to the nearest facility as quickly as possible.”

Health authorities have also advised people to avoid traditional or unproven treatments and seek medical attention immediately after a snakebite.

Dr Bimlesh Singh, deputy superintendent, Sadar Hospital, said, “Snakebite should be treated as medical emergency and that timely and appropriate treatment can prevent serious complications and deaths.”

Pointers

DO’S

⬤ Stay calm and reassure the victim.

⬤ Remove rings, bangles, watches or tight clothing from the affected limb before swelling develops.

⬤ Take the victim to the nearest hospital or health centre immediately. Anti-snake venom (ASV) should be administered by trained medical professionals when medically indicated.

⬤ Use an ambulance or emergency transport where available.

DON’TS

⬤ Do not cut, bite or make an incision around the snakebite wound.

⬤ Do not suck the venom out with the mouth or attempt to remove it manually.

⬤ Do not apply ice, chemicals, herbs, chilli, kerosene or other household substances to the bite.

⬤ Do not apply a tight tourniquet or tightly tie the affected limb. This can restrict blood circulation and cause serious tissue damage.

⬤ Do not make the victim walk unnecessarily or run to the hospital.

⬤ Do not give alcohol or unproven medicines or remedies.

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