International Snakebite Awareness Day 

■ According to WHO nearly 4.5-5.4 million people are bitten by snakes annually worldwide

■ Between 1.8-2.7 million cases of being infected by venom

■ In India, ‘big four’ snake species (Common Krait, Indian Cobra, Russell's Viper, and Saw Scaled Viper) account for the majority of deaths.

Bharat Serums & Vaccines Limited has been raising awareness on the dangers of untreated snakebites and the need for right and timely treatment. Its nationwide public health campaign “Saanp ka Vaar, Aspatal Me Hi Upchar” continues to strengthen preparedness.

Metro India News | Hyderabad 

The International Snakebite Awareness Day on September 19th throws light on the hazards arising from the venomous creatures. According to World Health Organization (WHO) nearly 4.5-5.4 million people are bitten by snakes annually worldwide, with between 1.8-2.7 million cases resulting in envenomation (spreading of venom). In India there are almost 300 different snake species but WHO points out that only the ‘big four’ snake species (Common Krait, Indian Cobra, Russell's Viper, and Saw Scaled Viper) account for the majority of deaths that occur.

 Dr. Prateek Sinha, Consultant Neonatologist & Paediatrician stated that it was critical to build awareness on snakebites and ensure that multiple stakeholders collaborate and bring targeted to bust the myths that surround snakebite management.  On this occasion, Bharat Serums and Vaccines Limited (BSV), a leader in bite management & women's health, reinforced its commitment towards creating awareness on immediate medical attention for snakebite incidents. It has also been involved in designing snakebite management training modules for healthcare and medical professionals.

Its nationwide public health campaign “Saanp ka Vaar, Aspatal Me Hi Upchar” continues to strengthen preparedness and drives home the message that every snakebite requires immediate hospital care. Sivani Sarma Deka, COO-India Business, BSV stated that the firm has been at the forefront of developing quality and effective treatments for snakebites.  The COO further stated that snakebite deaths could be prevented by building awareness and educating communities as well as by ensuring wider availability of treatments across the country.