Study Reveals Alarming Link: Climate Change Could Surge Snakebite Risks in India

Climate change isn’t just reshaping our environment; it’s altering the habitats of snakes in India. A new study involving scientists from India and South Korea has highlighted how rising temperatures and shifting ecosystems can lead to more snakebites, particularly from the infamous “Big Four” snakes: the common krait, Russell’s viper, saw-scaled viper, and Indian cobra.

India faces a staggering number of snakebite deaths each year—between 46,000 and 60,000. The research suggests that as climate change pushes these snakes into areas closer to human settlements, the risk of bites will rise. Regions that were previously less affected, like parts of the northern and northeastern states, may see an increase in snakebites.

To measure the potential impact, the researchers developed a risk index. This index considers how snake habitats overlap with populated areas, the socioeconomic vulnerability of those communities, and the availability of healthcare. Essentially, if humans and snakes come into contact more often and communities lack healthcare access, the bite risk increases.

Jaideep Menon from the Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences emphasizes the importance of understanding these interconnected factors, noting that the snakes’ populations depend on a complex ecosystem, including their prey. Changing weather patterns, agricultural practices, and even natural disasters can alter snake behavior and human-snake interactions.

Recent data supports the urgency to act. The World Health Organization warns that as climate conditions become more suitable for dangerous snake species, the risk to vulnerable communities will increase. Areas like Southeast Asia and Africa are particularly at risk.

Shantanu Kundu, one of the study’s authors, observes that while India has improved healthcare access and antivenom availability, challenges remain—especially in remote areas. He advocates for community education focused on snake identification and immediate medical care, stressing that training local snake rescuers can also help manage human-snake interactions.

Public awareness campaigns are crucial. These can teach people to avoid harming snakes and to contact authorities for safe removal. Menon further points out the need for better healthcare infrastructure and timely anti-venom supply to reduce snakebite fatalities.

Addressing snakebite incidents requires comprehensive strategies. This includes training healthcare workers, mapping snake hotspots, and understanding climate impacts on snake behavior. As we navigate these challenges, it’s clear that a multi-faceted approach is vital for public health and snake conservation in India.



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