There were 5,418 cases and 36 snake bite deaths reported in Karnataka this year as per the data in the Integrated Health Information Platform. The Snake Bite Prevention and Control Programme launched in February, 2024 under the National Health Mission aims to halve the number of snake bites cases including deaths and disabilities by 2030. The state is home to several venomous snakes such as King Cobra, the Malabar Pit Viper and Hump nosed Pit Viper.

Snake bite prevention programme will provide a concerted and coordinated action plan involving all the stakeholders to reduce snake bite cases. There are 172 district and taluk hospitals along with a few selected Community Health Centres identified as Snake Bite Treating Centres. The anti snake venom listed as the essential drug is made available at all the primary health centres and higher government health facilities.