President Bhandari stresses on improving snakebite treatment system

Kathmandu, August 2: International convention on snakebite has commenced in Kathmandu today. Doctors working in snakebite treatment and policymakers from the SAARC member countries, from the UK, the US, Switzerland, and Germany have been participating in the two-day conference.

It is believed that the conference would help make an action plan for the treatment and prevention of snakebite.

More than 40,000 people suffer from snakebite annually in Nepal and of them, more than 1,000 lose lives.

Speaking at the convention on snakebite organized by the Ministry of Health and Population, and Department of Internal Medicine of the BP Koirala Institute of Health Sciences at her residence, Shital Niwas, today president Bidya Devi Bhandari pointed out the need of improving snakebite treatment system along with the launch of awareness programs and preventive measures.

The President said the rise of snakebite cases is severe in the Tarai/Madhes area of the.

She also stressed on the need for addressing the constraints of knowledge on venomous snakes, first aid and availability of anti-venom. Meanwhile, the President appreciated the works carried out by the health workers to deliver quality health service despite limited facilities in the country.

On the occasion, Chief Minister of State 2, Lalbabu Raut, pointed out the need for the collective initiative from federal, States and local bodies to address the snakebite problems in Tarai/Madhes. (RSS)