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Snakebite cases rise sharply during the monsoon compared to any other season. To stay safe, remove certain items from your home immediately and adopt these preventive measures
According to official data, over 30 lakh people suffer snakebites every year in India, leading to more than 55,000 deaths. (News18 Hindi)
In India, thousands of people lose their lives each year to snakebites. As per the official data, over 30 lakh people fall victim to snakebites annually, with more than 55,000 reported deaths. The alarming part is that these numbers spike significantly during the monsoon season.
When heavy rains flood burrows and cause waterlogging, snakes often enter human settlements in search of dry, safe spaces. Sometimes, they’re even carried in by strong water currents. In such situations, human-snake encounters become more likely, and the snake may bite in self-defence.
Snakes Behind Most Snakebite Deaths In India
Wildlife expert Swapnil Khatal, who has worked in the field for nearly 20 years, says that India is home to around 364 snake species. Of these, only about 10% are venomous enough to pose a threat to human life. Among those, just four species are responsible for nearly 90% of all snakebite deaths in the country. These are:
- Spectacled Cobra
- Common Krait
- Russell’s Viper
- Saw-scaled Viper
Together, they are referred to as India’s ‘Big Four’.
Where Snakes Like To Hide
According to Khatal, snakes are drawn to dark, cramped spaces where food is readily available. These include piles of wood, bricks, junk, and places where rats or lizards are commonly found. In rural areas, the smell of discarded fish or meat scraps can also attract snakes.
To avoid unwanted encounters, it’s essential to maintain cleanliness both inside and around your home. Here are some tips to keep snakes away:
- Regularly clean the house with strong-smelling phenyl.
- Clear out junk piles, wood stacks, and unused materials.
- Install proper lighting in dark corners and outdoor areas.
- Plant thorny bushes near entrances.
- Eliminate rodents, lizards, and other small creatures that attract snakes.
- Fill in or block burrows near the home.
Being cautious and taking preventive measures can significantly reduce the risk of snake encounters, especially during the rainy season.
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