Subodh’s mother was bitten by a snake, but rather than going to a hospital, Subodh took her to a faith healer who treated her with a stick. “We trust healers more than hospitals,” Subodh said from his shop in Morta, Ghaziabad.
Snakebites in India claim more lives annually than malaria and dengue combined, with estimates suggesting around 58,000 deaths each year. Despite India having the highest number of snakebite fatalities globally, the crisis rarely makes headlines. Data shows 94 percent of snakebites occur in rural areas, with 77 percent of deaths happening outside hospitals.
The crisis is exacerbated by poor public health infrastructure and deep-rooted superstitions. Many villagers prefer faith healers over medical treatment due to myths and cultural beliefs.
The Indian government’s recent initiatives, including the National Action for Prevention and Control of Snakebite Envenoming and a helpline, have yet to make a significant impact. States, such as Madhya Pradesh, have spent substantial amounts in compensation, yet the mortality rate remains high.
Dr. Priyanka Kadam of the Snakebite Healing and Education Society highlights the cultural barriers: “Beliefs in superstitions lead many to seek faith healing instead of medical care. Educating people on snake identification could make a big difference.”