Experts pitch for translation of IEC material to local languages for prevention of snakebites

“This has a huge potential for controlling snakebite envenoming in high burden countries,” researchers said.
The scientists have further invited researchers and community members across the globe to translate this material in their local language. “We believe that these translations hold potential to revolutionise snakebite control in all high-burden regions. These concerted efforts provide hope for India and set a precedent for other nations to follow in the fight against this deadly neglected tropical disease.”

Their IEC material includes management flowchart for medical officers, information booklets for healthcare workers, awareness posters for communities and brochures for families, all available in multiple languages, including tribal dialects.

Snakebite envenoming is a global health crisis, primarily affecting low- and middle-income countries across Asia, Africa, and South America. India, often referred to as the snakebite capital, faces a staggering burden, accounting for about 60,000 snakebite-related fatalities annually. However, efforts to combat this menace have intensified over the last decade, led by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), the apex institution in the field.

Dr. Munshi, emphasised the importance of a holistic approach, saying, “Inclusive planning and implementation can substantially reduce snakebite burden. The development of this awareness material involved medical officers, healthcare workers, public health researchers, communities, snakebite victims and traditional healers. Their inputs, followed by critical review by national snakebite experts along with translation to local languages make this material unique and credible.”