A sensitisation workshop conducted at Government Senior Secondary School, Manglutan, brought students and teachers together for a detailed orientation on the prevention and control of snakebite envenoming. The session, organised by the Directorate of Health Services in association with the National Health Mission, focused on practical awareness, early identification and timely response in communities that frequently come into contact with wildlife.
The workshop was led by the State Nodal Officer for the Prevention and Control of Snakebite Envenoming, along with the District Public Health Officer (South Andaman), who jointly explained the medical, environmental and behavioural aspects linked to snakebite incidents. With snakebites remaining one of the significant public health concerns in many rural and forest-adjacent areas, the programme emphasised awareness as a critical tool to reduce morbidity and mortality.
Students were briefed on recognising common signs of snakebites, including immediate symptoms that may appear before medical support arrives. The resource persons stressed that early identification and prompt medical intervention greatly influence recovery outcomes. To support this understanding, the trainers described the types of snakes commonly found in the Islands and typical scenarios in which bites occur, highlighting the need for caution in agricultural fields, forest edges and areas with dense vegetation.
The session also outlined the dos and don’ts of first aid, correcting misconceptions that often lead to delayed treatment or complications. Participants were advised that traditional methods such as tying tourniquets, making cuts near the bite or attempting to suck out venom are harmful and should be avoided. Instead, immobilisation of the limb, reassurance of the patient and immediate shift to a medical facility were presented as the correct approach. The trainers reiterated that anti-venom administration can only be conducted at a healthcare centre under proper supervision, making rapid transportation essential.
The resource persons highlighted the need for community-level involvement, encouraging students to take back key messages to their households and neighbourhoods. They explained that awareness at the community level plays an important role in reducing panic and controlling misinformation during emergencies. Participants were encouraged to help spread scientifically validated steps for handling snakebite incidents, focusing on staying calm, avoiding risky interactions with snakes and reporting sightings in areas frequented by children.
Throughout the session, teachers were encouraged to integrate the learnings into daily school routines wherever applicable. The workshop also recommended that schools situated near forest patches maintain clear pathways, ensure proper storage of material in utility areas and promote general cleanliness to reduce the chances of reptiles entering campus spaces. These practices, combined with student awareness, were projected as essential components of building safer school environments.
The programme also covered general community strategies, including keeping surroundings free of open garbage and debris, which attract rodents and in turn increase snake presence. Participants were advised to use adequate lighting while walking outdoors at night and to remain vigilant in areas with tall grass. Trainers added that strengthening cooperation among community groups, local administration and health services is essential in ensuring timely action when incidents occur.
The workshop concluded with students noting key steps for emergency response and expressing interest in learning more about wildlife behaviour and safety. Officials reiterated that sensitisation efforts will continue across different regions to build a more informed and prepared population. With snakebite cases often occurring in remote areas where initial actions determine medical outcomes, the administration aims to reduce preventable hazards through awareness-driven interventions.
