Kerala HC Directs Comprehensive Snakebite Prevention Guidelines For Schools [Read Order]

New Delhi: The Kerala High Court has mandated the formulation of comprehensive guidelines for snakebite prevention and management in educational institutions across the state, following rising incidents and the need for coordinated emergency response protocols.

Chief Justice Nitin Jamdar and Justice Shoba Annamma Eapen issued detailed directives for inter-departmental coordination to address snakebite incidents in Kerala’s schools, emphasizing proactive prevention measures and emergency preparedness.

The court addressed W.P.(C) No. 32493 of 2019 filed by Kulathoor Jaisingh, which originally sought directions for displaying emergency medicine stock information at hospital pharmacies but later expanded to encompass broader snakebite prevention measures in schools.

The petition highlighted concerns about frequent snakebite incidents and the inadequate preparedness of educational institutions to handle such emergencies, prompting the court to order comprehensive action across multiple government departments.

Following interim directions, both the Education and Health Departments prepared detailed draft guidelines covering prevention, response, and management in school environments. The Education Department’s draft guidelines require regular cleaning of premises, removal of weeds and garbage dumps, sealing of cracks in buildings, and protocols for checking footwear kept outside classrooms.

The Health Department’s guidelines emphasize immediate first aid, rapid medical care, and availability of Anti-Snake Venom (ASV). Schools must ensure ASV accessibility, maintain contact numbers for nearby hospitals, and designate trained staff for first aid. The court also directed integration with Kerala’s SARPA initiative, including engagement of certified snake handlers and use of the SARPA and Snake-Pedia apps.

Statistical data presented showed fluctuating numbers of snakebite cases—5,322 in 2020, 3,412 in 2021, 4,279 in 2022, 5,135 in 2023, and 6,664 in 2024—though fatalities declined from 71 (2019–20) to 31 (2024–25).

The guidelines strictly prohibit traditional or unscientific remedies such as black stones, scarification, or cutting the wound. Instead, emphasis is placed on awareness, training, and integration of digital tools for snakebite education.

The Chief Secretary has been given four weeks to finalize the guidelines after incorporating inputs from the Forest Department, Local Self Government Department, Institute of Virology, and National Health Mission. Counsel for the petitioner, amicus curiae, and interveners may submit suggestions through the Advocate General’s office.

Case Title: Kulathoor Jaisingh vs. State of Kerala & Ors.

[Read Order]