Instances of snakes entering human habitations are common in Coimbatore, which has a long forest boundary. And, hence, there are also several cases of snake bites. However, a major impediment in treating such cases is the shortage of anti-venoms in pharmacies.
Alagu Jayabalan, former chairman (retail wing) of Tamil Nadu Chemists and Druggists Association, says they are not getting the drugs for several months now and most of the supplies are now going only to Government hospitals.
He says a lot of snake bites occur only during the late night hours when people step on these reptiles in the dark. They immediately approach the nearest pharmacist, who directs them to the GH, resulting in loss of valuable time. The Coimbatore Medical College Hospital recorded an average of 35 cases of snakes bites per month. In the last ten months, 336 cases of snake bites were treated of which there were 54 deaths. A source in the State Drug Control Department says that the shortage of anti snake venom has been tided over. It was sorted out after they took up the issue with stockists of the private firm that provides the bulk of the vaccine. The officer also denied of any policy to divert all anti snake venoms only to Government hospitals.
K. Rathish of Save Our Snakes organisation says of the 130-odd species of snakes found in Coimbatore, only seven are venomous and lethal to men. Of these, three species are found only in deep jungle. However, almost all snakes bite only when people accidentally step on them or if they perceive a threat.
People must avoid places where snakes are likely to be found.
The incidents of snake bites are concentrated in Annur, Sulur, Pollachi, Malumitchampatti and Kinathukadavu besides areas near Siruvani.