Maharashtra Declares Snakebite a Notifiable Disease After 655 Deaths

The Maharashtra government has officially declared snakebite a notifiable disease across the state following 655 recorded fatalities over the past three years, Health Minister Prakash Abitkar announced on Tuesday.

Under the newly instituted system, both government and private hospitals across Maharashtra will be required to report every suspected and confirmed snakebite case, along with any snakebite-related deaths, directly to the Health Department.

The state government's decision comes in the wake of the recent deaths of three schoolgirls following snakebites in Gadchiroli.

State authorities noted that the move is aimed at creating a more accurate picture of Maharashtra's snakebite burden. By tracking cases systematically, the Health Department intends to ensure timely medical treatment, particularly for residents living in rural and remote areas.