A recent study reveals that India’s most dangerous snakes, known as the ‘Big Four’, are expected to move northwards due to changing climate patterns. This shift could significantly impact how India manages snakebites, a serious public health issue. The snakes in question are the Common Krait, Russell’s Viper, Saw-scaled Viper, and Spectacled Cobra. These species are responsible for most snakebite fatalities across the country.
The study, published in the journal PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases, used data from the IUCN and advanced mapping techniques. Researchers analysed current habitats and predicted future changes under different climate change scenarios. They found that states currently having the most suitable living conditions for these snakes might see a reduction in these areas.
Conversely, northern and northeastern parts of India are projected to experience an increase in suitable habitats for the Big Four. This is a major concern because these regions are also seeing growth in agricultural and urban areas. More people living and working in areas where these venomous snakes are likely to move means a higher chance of human-snake encounters and, sadly, more snakebites.
India faces a significant challenge with snakebites. The country accounts for nearly half of all snakebite deaths globally. Snakebite is even recognised as a Neglected Tropical Disease in India, meaning it receives less attention and resources than it deserves despite its severe impact.
The Big Four snakes are particularly dangerous because they cause over 90% of envenomations in India. While other venomous snakes exist, their bites are less common and result in fewer deaths. The vulnerability of people in areas where these snakes may migrate is a key finding of the research.
For instance, the Saw-scaled Viper, currently found in areas with the most suitable conditions in Karnataka, might see its habitat reduce there by up to 44%. However, states like Haryana and Rajasthan could see an increase in suitable areas for this snake. More strikingly, northeastern states like Manipur, Meghalaya, Nagaland, and Arunachal Pradesh, which currently have very little or no suitable habitat for the Big Four, are predicted to experience a significant rise – over 100% – in habitat suitability.
This northward shift means that populations in these newly suitable areas, who may not be accustomed to the presence of these dangerous snakes, will face new risks. Effective snakebite management strategies will need to adapt to these changing geographical distributions.
The study’s authors stress the need for coordinated efforts to tackle this growing problem. This includes action from government bodies, health organisations at all levels, and the international community. Addressing snakebite as a neglected tropical disease requires a comprehensive approach that considers environmental changes like climate change.
The research, titled “Future of snakebite risk in India: Consequence of climate change and the shifting habitats of the big four species in the next five decades,” highlights the urgent need for proactive measures. These measures should focus on public awareness, improved access to effective antivenom, and community-based strategies in areas predicted to see an increase in snake populations. By anticipating these shifts, India can better protect its citizens from the deadly threat of snakebites.