City Desk :
Bangladesh is facing an escalating threat from Russell’s Vipers, once confined to the Barendra area but now increasingly reported in regions like Barishal, Patuakhali, Chandpur, and even the outskirts of Dhaka. This year, snake bites have resulted in 10 fatalities, highlighting the urgent need for effective countermeasures. Implementing strategies recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) could be crucial in addressing this growing public health concern.
Rising Incidents and Environmental Impact
Experts attribute the increase in Russell’s viper sightings and incidents to the disruption of the food chain. Dr. Abu Sayeed, a wildlife and environment expert, points out that the killing of natural predators like foxes, guisaps, and beejis has allowed the snake population to flourish.
This ecological imbalance, combined with the snake’s high reproductive rate, has led to a rapid increase in their population.
Russell’s vipers, locally known as Chandrabora or Ulubora, give birth to live young, with females delivering between 20 to 40 cubs, and sometimes up to 80. The abundance of prey such as mice and frogs in crop fields further supports their proliferation.
Characteristics and Dangers
The Russell’s viper is one of the most venomous snakes in the world.
Resembling a baby python, it has a distinct flat, triangular head adorned with dark brown spots, enabling it to camouflage easily in dry leaves or paddy fields.
Unlike most snakes, Russell’s vipers are aggressive and will attack if they feel threatened. They strike with incredible speed, completing the entire process in just a sixteenth of a second, and produce a loud hissing sound similar to a pressure cooker when agitated.
The venom of the Russell’s viper is hematotoxic, causing severe tissue damage. A bite leads to immediate swelling and can result in the destruction of various organs, including the lungs and kidneys. Without prompt medical treatment, the affected area can begin to rot within five minutes of the bite.
Expansion and Public Health Threat
Once native to the Barendra region, the Russell’s viper now inhabits at least 25 districts across Bangladesh, with significant populations in the basins of the Padma, Meghna, and Yamuna rivers.
This expansion has led to an increase in snakebite incidents, particularly among farmers and fishermen who often work without adequate protective equipment.
Traditional beliefs and superstitions in rural areas contribute to delays in seeking proper medical treatment, exacerbating the problem.
Despite reports of insufficient antivenom supplies at the upazila level, the Department of Health assures that antivenom is being distributed in high-risk areas. However, timely hospital visits after a snakebite are crucial, as delays can be fatal without ICU support. Protective Measures and WHO Recommendations
The resurgence of the Russell’s viper poses a significant threat to public health, with over 400,000 snakebite incidents and more than 7,000 fatalities annually in Bangladesh. Effective protective measures are essential in combating this menace. Dr. Abu Sayeed recommends that farmers wear gumboots for protection. The World Health Organization (WHO) seminar in Myanmar highlighted the importance of such protective gear.
In a study conducted in Taungdwingyi Township, 99% of farmers who wore fang-proof boots felt fully protected against snakebites. These boots were light, comfortable, and affordable, with 99% of farmers willing to purchase them even if not provided for free.
The WHO seminar also stressed the need for improved first aid methods, early deployment of antivenom, and education of doctors, nurses, and the community about snakebite prevention and treatment. These strategies are crucial for Bangladesh as well. The seminar’s recommendations include.