Rohit Shishodia
Deaths, disability and cases of snakebite many a times remain neglected across the globe. The World Health Organization (WHO) has come up with a strategy that aims to halve the number of deaths and cases due to snakebite over the next 12 years.

The strategy - Snakebite envenoming: a strategy for prevention and control - will be launched on May 23, 2019, in Geneva, Switzerland.

The strategy includes a program that targets affected communities and their health systems, ensuring access to safe, effective treatment through increased cooperation, collaboration and partnership at all levels.

According to WHO data, snakebite envenoming affects 1.8-2.7 million people every year including 81000-138000 deaths and causing 400000 cases of permanent disability. 7400 people in different parts of the world are bitten by snakes every day.

The strategy which has been developed by a 28-member panel of experts commits to ensure access to safe, effective and affordable treatment, antivenoms and ancillary medical care.

The priorities such as improved and strengthened production, supply and distribution of live-saving antivenoms and other commodities to treat snakebites will be addressed.