Current Affairs - State - Discussion

Maharashtra declared snakebite a notifiable disease, effective from August 18, 2026, making the reporting of suspected and confirmed snakebite cases and related deaths compulsory. Healthcare institutions and professionals are required to report cases to the concerned district health authorities through systems such as the Health Management Information System (HMIS) and Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP). The measure aims to strengthen disease surveillance, ensure timely treatment, and improve planning for anti-snake venom (ASV) availability. The state has also emphasised the importance of receiving treatment within the “golden hour” of 60 minutes after a snakebite.