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India records around 2 lakh snakebite cases every year, with over 50 thousand deaths. Shockingly, about 90 per cent of these fatalities are caused by just four snake species
Despite the small number of venomous snake species in India, snake bites put hundreds of thousands of people at risk each year.
India is home to almost 36 species of snakes, but only about 10 per cent are venomous. Among these, some are mildly poisonous, causing symptoms like stomach ache, vomiting, and dizziness rather than death. Despite the small number of venomous species, snake bites put hundreds of thousands of people at risk every year.
The Deadly Big Four
Abhishek, a wildlife expert with 30 years of experience and project manager at the Nature Environment and Wildlife Society in Champaran, Bihar, explains that only four snakes cause the majority of fatalities in India.
According to reports, India records approximately 2 lakh snakebite cases annually, with over 50 thousand resulting in death. Notably, about 90 per cent of these fatalities are caused by the ‘Big Four’ snakes: the Spectacled Cobra, Russell’s Viper, Saw-Scaled Viper, and Common Krait.
Venom Types and Effects
The Spectacled Cobra and Common Krait possess neurotoxic venom, which attacks the human nervous system rapidly, causing paralysis, brain haemorrhage, and, if untreated, death. Russell’s Viper and Saw-Scaled Viper have hemotoxic and cytotoxic venom, which coagulates blood like jelly, leading to intense pain, organ failure, and potentially death.
Neurotoxic venom acts very quickly, making the first 30 to 60 minutes after a bite crucial for survival. Immediate medical attention during this ‘golden hour’ significantly increases the chances of recovery.
In some cases, victims have died in under 40 minutes if treatment is delayed. Hemotoxic venom also requires urgent care, as the blood solidifies rapidly, causing severe complications, including kidney failure.
Rapid Venom Spread
Regardless of venom type, swift medical intervention is essential. Neurotoxic venom spreads faster than hemotoxic, but both are life-threatening without timely treatment. While King Cobras and a few other snakes also have neurotoxic venom, humans most frequently encounter the Spectacled Cobra and Common Krait, making these the most dangerous.
Experts advise remaining calm after a snake bite, as panic raises blood pressure and accelerates venom spread. The recommended first step is to bandage the wound loosely three fingers above the bite (enough space for four fingers) using a wide cloth. Victims should then seek urgent medical care without unnecessary movement.
September 06, 2025, 17:56 IST
