Bangladesh Faces Resurgence of Venomous Russell’s Viper - Durbar Bagerhat

Bangladesh Faces Resurgence of Venomous Russell’s Viper

The Russell’s viper (Daboia russelii), known locally as “chandra bora,” is a highly venomous snake experiencing a concerning population resurgence in Bangladesh. Previously considered a rare encounter, this development poses a significant public health threat, particularly in rural areas.

Potent Venom and Historical Rarity

The Russell’s viper reigns as the most venomous snake within Bangladesh.

Its bite delivers a powerful toxin capable of inducing a range of severe medical complications, including paralysis, neurotoxicity, and even kidney dysfunction [2].

For well over a century, these vipers were believed to be exceptionally scarce in the region. However, this perception shifted dramatically in 2013 with a reported surge in snakebite cases, many resulting in fatalities, especially among agricultural workers [1].

Factors Contributing to the Resurgence

Enhanced Irrigation Systems: Modern irrigation practices facilitate year-round crop cultivation, inadvertently creating a consistent food source for the viper’s preferred prey – rats. This flourishing rodent population provides a prime breeding ground for the vipers to proliferate [1].

Land-Use Alterations: Shifts in land-use practices, particularly in areas experiencing frequent snakebite incidents, have unknowingly contributed to the viper’s resurgence. The development of flat plains through irrigation infrastructure has significantly altered the historical landscape. This transformation may be disrupting the viper’s natural habitat and increasing their interaction with human populations [1].

Challenges and the Path Forward

Anti venom Reliance: Despite the viper’s resurgence, Bangladesh currently relies on imported anti venom for treatment. To address this critical issue, the nation has established a new Venom Research Centre dedicated to studying and developing anti venom solutions for indigenous venomous snakes [1].

Geographic Expansion: Russell’s vipers now occupy at least 25 districts across the country, including areas bordering major rivers like the Padma, Meghna, and Yamuna. Heightened public awareness and preventative measures are essential to minimize snakebite incidents [4].

As Bangladesh confronts this emerging public health threat, a multi-pronged approach is necessary. This includes a deeper understanding of Russell’s viper behavior, the implementation of effective safety protocols for those at risk, and the development of readily available, locally-produced anti venom. These crucial steps will safeguard lives and livelihoods within Bangladesh.

References:

[1] Venomous Russell’s vipers make a comeback in Bangladesh’s north and southeast https://www.dhakatribune.com/bangladesh/nation/265736/russell’s-viper-killed-with-harpoon-in

[2] Resurgence of deadly Russell’s viper prompts Bangladesh to develop antivenom https://www.eastmojo.com/neighbourhood-watch/bangladesh/2023/06/20/russells-viper-bangladesh-mulls-own-antivenom-as-snakebites-surge/

[4] With a Russell’s viper and snakebite resurgence, Bangladesh looks to developing antivenom https://www.eastmojo.com/neighbourhood-watch/bangladesh/2023/06/20/russells-viper-bangladesh-mulls-own-antivenom-as-snakebites-surge/

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Bangladesh faces a surge in Russell’s vipers, a highly venomous snake. Learn about the dangers, factors behind the increase, and efforts to develop local antivenom.