Thiruvananthapuram, April 29 -- In a major push to curb snakebite-related deaths, the Kerala Health Department has unveiled a comprehensive action plan focusing on faster treatment, better surveillance, and expanded access to anti-snake venom across the state.

Health Minister Veena George said the initiative aims to ensure that every snakebite victim receives timely and effective medical care.

A significant outcome of the strengthened emergency response is the performance of the 'Kaniv 108' ambulance service, which facilitated prompt treatment for 137 people within five days. This included 75 confirmed snakebite cases and 62 suspected cases, all of whom were transported quickly to hospitals equipped with anti-venom. The ambulances, staffe...