Alarming rise in snake, dog bite cases in Akola

AKOLA: Rising cases of snake and dog bite from April to October this year has started ringing alarm bells. Over 586 cases of snake bite and 2,770 of dog bite, said the health department.
However, only one death due to snake bite was reported with the availability of modern medical science and awareness among the masses. Earlier, people used to kill snakes after spotting them.Now 'sarp mitras' are releasing reptiles in jungles. But in the recent past, after a 'sarp mitra' died of snake biting, many others have stopped releasing snakes in the forest.
More snake bite cases are reported from rural parts compared to urban areas. Moreover, snake bite cases increase during monsoon. Further, some snake charmers and traders collect snake poison for sale to a prominent institute and other organizations.
The number of stray dogs too is increasing day by day because of non-sterilization and apathy of the municipal bodies. 2,770 cases of dog bite were reported during the last seven months. 2,019 male and 751 women were affected by dog bite. Residents have demanded that the municipal authorities should step up drive to control dog menace.