Context

The Union Health Secretary, introduced the National Action Plan for Prevention and Control of Snakebite Envenoming (NAP-SE) in India. 

Other Initiatives

• During the event, various programmes were launched such as
  • The National Rabies Control Programme Website
    • Objective: It aims to provide valuable information and support for controlling Rabies effectively.
  • The National One Health Programme for Prevention and Control of Zoonoses. 
  • Objective: This initiative aims to enhance the surveillance of zoonotic diseases nationwide. 

About National Action Plan for Prevention and Control of Snakebite Envenoming (NAP-SE)

• The NAP-SE offers directions for states, union territories, and stakeholders to design customized action plans according to their individual needs and circumstances. 
• Vision:  To reduce snakebite deaths significantly.
• Framework: It offers a wide-ranging structure for states to create their own strategies for handling, preventing, and managing snakebites.
  • For coordination between SNO and DNO, states will nominate state and district nodal officers. 
  • One Health Approach: The plan highlights a comprehensive ‘One Health’ approach. It encourages cooperation among human, wildlife, tribal, and animal health sectors.

• Snakebite Helpline: In 5 states Puducherry, Madhya Pradesh, Assam, Andhra Pradesh, and Delhi,  Snakebite Helpline number (15400) will be piloted. 
  • This helpline aims to offer  immediate assistance, guidance, and support to victims of snakebite. 
• The NAPSE has outlined important steps to be taken to address the human, wildlife, and animal aspects.
  • The strategic action for human health component are 
    • Ensuring provision of anti snake venom at all health facilities 
    • Strengthening surveillance of snake bite cases and deaths in humans 
    • Strengthening of emergency care services at District Hospitals/ CHCs including services for ambulance, 
    • Institutionalization of Regional Venom Centre’s and inter-sectoral coordination.
  • The strategic action for wildlife health components are educating and raising awareness, distributing antivenom, strengthening key stakeholders, conducting research and monitoring, and safely relocating snakes. 
  • For the animal and agriculture side, actions include preventing snake bites in livestock, engaging with communities, and more.

News Source: PIB