Don’t Approach Witchdoctors in Snakebite Cases, Gadchiroli Officials Urge Locals Gadchiroli district officials have issued a public advisory urging locals to avoid seeking treatment from witchdoctors in cases of snakebites, emphasizing the dangers of such practices. The district, which has recorded over 1,700 snakebite cases over the past three years, has seen a surge in incidents during the monsoon season. Officials highlighted that many victims are treated at home or taken to witchdoctors instead of hospitals, exacerbating the risk of severe complications or death. The advisory, released by the district administration, is part of its annual monsoon disaster management program. It outlines critical steps to prevent snakebites and ensure timely medical intervention. Officials noted that the number of cases has fluctuated in recent years, with 542 reported in 2023, 479 in 2024, and 580 in 2025. As of June 2026, 134 cases had been recorded, underscoring the persistent threat posed by venomous snakes during the rainy season. Monsoon conditions drive snakes to move out of water-filled holes in search of drier ground, increasing human-snake encounters. However, locals often resort to unscientific methods such as cutting the bitten area, sucking out venom, or relying on traditional remedies. Officials stressed that these practices are ineffective and can worsen the victim’s condition. Instead, they urged immediate administration of anti-venom doses within an hour of the bite, a measure emphasized in distributed pamphlets. The district administration claims to have over 6,000 doses of anti-snake venom available at primary health centers, district hospitals, and sub-district facilities.#district_administration #gadchiroli_district #monsoon_disaster_management_program #anti_snake_venom #snakebite_cases
