The snakebite death toll in Kerala has risen further after a 64-year-old man succumbed to envenomation while undergoing treatment in hospital.
Victim bitten outside home
The deceased, Rajendran, a native of Munroe Island, was bitten by a Russell’s viper at his daughter’s residence in Kollam district last week.
Police said he had stepped outside the house after dinner when the snake struck. Despite being partially blind, he alerted family members, who killed the snake and rushed him to a nearby hospital.
Condition worsened despite treatment
Rajendran was administered anti-venom initially, but his condition deteriorated, prompting his transfer to Thiruvananthapuram Medical College Hospital, where he died on Friday morning.
Police have registered a case and initiated an investigation. The body will be handed over to the family after post-mortem examination.
Rising snakebite incidents
The incident adds to a worrying rise in snakebite deaths across the state. In the past two weeks, multiple fatalities have been reported, including those involving children in Thiruvananthapuram, Thrissur, and Kasaragod.
Experts urge caution
Experts say increasing temperatures are driving snakes closer to human habitations in search of cooler environments and prey.
Residents have been advised to remain vigilant, especially at night, and to avoid stepping into dark or overgrown areas without proper lighting.
Growing public concern
The rising number of snakebite incidents has sparked concern among health officials and communities, highlighting the need for awareness, quick medical response, and preventive measures in vulnerable areas.#Kerala #Snakebite #PublicHealth #Wildlife #SafetyAlert #BreakingNews #newskarnataka