There are a reported 250,000 estimated venomous snake bites per year in India. Of that number, it is estimated that there are at least 50,000 fatalities, or approximately 20% of the snake bite victims. The "Big Four" of venomous snakes in India Include the following:
1). Saw Scaled Viper
2). Russell's Viper
3). Common Krait
4). Indian (Spectacled) Cobra
These snakes are numerous and aggressive in the areas of India where they are found and are the most likely to bite. They tend to be attracted to agricultural areas, such as rice paddies, where they can find abundant food sources, such as rodents. The search for rodents also brings them into populated areas and on occasion into houses. These snakes are also big killers in other parts of South East Asia and pose a significant threat to agricultural workers, in particular.
India and other Asian countries now have much better medical treatment and antivenom available, but continue to suffer a high percentage of fatalities, due to continued reliance on folk medicine remedies and the length of time needed to get to a proper medical treatment center. Snakebites from these 4 snakes are so prevalent, that a common antivenom has been developed to treat the bites for all 4.
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