Bheri Hospital achieves zero snakebite fatalities

By Siraj Khan,Nepalgunj, Sep,1: Bheri Hospital in Nepalgunj has established itself as a foremost centre for snakebite treatment, achieving a notable milestone of zero fatalities this year despite attending to 450 patients from the districts of Banke, Bardiya, Surkhet, Dang, and Kailali.

 Hospital officials reported that, unlike previous years when several snakebite victims succumbed during treatment, no patient admitted this year lost their lives, an achievement regarded as a significant medical accomplishment for the entire region. 

Dr. Sanket Kumar Rijal, Head of the Emergency Department and Information Officer, indicated that of the 450 cases over the past three months, approximately 80 percent involved non-venomous snakes, while the remaining 20 percent were cases involving the bite of venomous snakes, managed with anti-snake venom. "This is a landmark achievement for our hospital,” stated Dr. Rijal, highlighting that only two patients had died before reaching the hospital. 

The Chief Medical Superintendent, Dr. Nirajan Subedi, attributed this success to the prompt arrival of patients, effective preparedness, and a high-quality medical facility. Nepal is home to roughly 90 snake species, 18 of which are venomous. Among the most deadly are the common krait, spectacled cobra, king cobra, and Russell’s viper in the Tarai region, while the green pit viper is frequently encountered in hilly districts.