Palghar/Mumbai: Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road, successfully saved the life of a 14–year–old boy who was admitted in critical condition following a venomous snakebite in Manor. The child, bitten in the evening, collapsed immediately and sustained facial trauma and dental injuries due to the fall.
He was initially treated at the local Primary Health Center (PHC), he was administered approximately 10 vials of antivenom before being referred to Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road. Upon arrival, he was in a coma, unresponsive, and bleeding profusely—a clinical picture often associated with viper bites. He was also found to have multiple facial fractures, including a fractured nasal septum.
Dr. Ankit Gupta, Consultant – Pediatric Critical Care Medicine at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road, said: “Our critical care team immediately administered additional antivenom, provided life support, and placed the child on a ventilator. As his condition stabilized, we observed weakness in his left arm and leg. This prompted an MRI of the brain, which revealed that he had suffered a stroke—a rare but known complication of viper envenomation. We started treatment with blood thinners and initiated intensive physiotherapy.”
The patient steadily improved over the following days. He remained under close observation and care at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road for about 15 to 16 days before being discharged in a stable condition.”
The patient steadily improved under continuous monitoring and care. After a hospital stay of 15 to 16 days, he was discharged in stable condition.
Dr. Ankit Gupta further added, “Today, the young patient is doing well and continues to recover through rehabilitation and physiotherapy. This case highlights the importance timely medical intervention and specialized critical care can make a life-saving difference in managing complex snakebite cases”
Raising Awareness on Snakebite Reporting Dr. Aklesh Tandekar, Head Consultant Critical Care at Wockhardt Hospitals Mira Road, emphasized the public health importance of snakebite awareness and reporting.“Snakebites and related deaths are now classified as a Notifiable Disease in India. It is mandatory for both government and private healthcare facilities to report all suspected and confirmed snakebite cases and fatalities.”
He added that globally, someone is bitten by a snake every 10 seconds. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), snakebites cause an estimated 81,000 to 138,000 deaths annually and leave around 400,000 people with permanent disabilities. In India, nearly 90% of venomous snakebites are caused by the ‘big four’ species—common krait, Indian cobra, Russell’s viper, and saw-scaled viper.
“Effective measures—especially community education and timely access to antivenom—can significantly reduce snakebite mortality in India,” said Dr. Aklesh Tandekar.
Wockhardt Hospitals Mira Road, remains committed to providing specialized and emergency care, equipped to handle complex, time-sensitive medical cases like this one.
Immediate Action to be taken
1. Remain calm: Panicking can increase heart rate, which may spread the venom faster.
2. Remove constricting items: Loosen tight clothing, jewelry, or watches that may constrict the affected area.
Immobilization and Positioning
1. Immobilize the affected limb: Use a splint or sling to keep the limb still and prevent movement.
2. Keep the affected limb below heart level: This can help slow down the spread of venom.
Wound Care
1. Clean the wound: Gently clean the bite area with soap and water.
2. Apply a clean dressing: Cover the wound with a sterile dressing or bandage.
What Not to Do
1. Do not attempt to suck out the venom: This method is ineffective and can cause more harm.
2. Do not apply a tourniquet: Tourniquets can cut off blood flow and worsen the situation.
3. Do not apply ice or heat: These can also worsen the situation.
Seek Medical Attention
1. Call for emergency help: If possible, call for an ambulance or seek immediate medical attention.
2. Get to a hospital: Even if the bite seems minor, it’s crucial to get medical attention as soon as possible.
Additional Tips
1. Try to remember the snake’s appearance: If possible, take a picture or remember the snake’s color, shape, and size to help medical professionals identify the species.
2. Do not delay medical treatment: Prompt medical attention is essential for effective treatment and minimizing potential complications.
