Editorial | Venom of neglect
Summary
Snakebites in Nepal's remote hill areas, especially Karnali's Kalikot district, are rising due to climate change, with poor access to treatment leading to preventable deaths.
Key Points
- Snakebite deaths in Nepal's remote areas are avoidable with proper awareness and timely treatment.
- Kalikot district in Karnali province has seen an increase in snakebites due to rising temperatures and lacks adequate anti-venom facilities.
- Only 20 percent of snakebite victims reach hospitals; many die at home or en route.
- Government guidelines require well-equipped snakebite treatment centres, but implementation is lacking in districts like Kalikot.
