News & Events

The Indian Association of Preventive and Social Medicine – Kerala State Chapter, in association with the Foundation for People-Centric Health Systems, successfully conducted a one-day workshop on Snake bite Envenoming Prevention at Sree Uthradom Thirunal Academy of Medical Sciences, Vattappara, Thiruvananthapuram on 14th August 2025.
  
The workshop was facilitated by eminent experts, including Dr. Chandrakant Lahariya (MBBS, MD, DNB), India’s leading medical doctor and health policy expert, and Founder & Director of the Foundation for People-Centric Health Systems, New Delhi. Dr. Lahariya has served as an advisor to several national and international organizations, including the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, and the World Bank and Dr. Kathyayani, Asst. Prof. in Emergency Medicine, MCH, Thiruvananthapuram. Other distinguished facilitators included Dr. Ajith Chakravarthy, Treasurer and Dr. Krishna Kumar. M. K, President, Kerala chapter of IAPSM who took sensitisation classes for the media professionals.
  
The program featured insightful seminars and interactive discussions on strategies for prevention, early recognition, and management of snakebite envenoming—a pressing public health concern in India.
  
The workshop brought together 14 delegates from government hospitals, 37 from private hospitals, and 11 representatives from the media, fostering a collaborative platform for knowledge exchange and capacity building.
  
Lack of 100% reporting of snake bites is a concern in correct data analysis. The information gap in the availability of ASV for the victims and lack of information regarding its side effects is yet another concern. Adequate knowledge on identification of venomous and non-venomous snakes among the general population should be covered by more citizen centric programs. Health education on first aid for snake bite victims to be propagated. These were the issues stated by the participants.
  
The organizers expressed hope that workshops like this would strengthen healthcare providers’ readiness to prevent and manage snakebite incidents effectively, ultimately saving lives and reducing long-term disability. The exchange of information from various stakeholders can be utilised for policy building and better health program management.
  
SUTAMS is proud to be a part of this vital public health initiative and remains committed to fostering knowledge, dialogue, and action for a healthier tomorrow