Rajshahi, June 26 (V7N)- Recent times have seen an increase in the incidence of Russell's viper snake bites across the country, causing concern among the general public. Snakes are now being found not only in rice fields and riverbanks but also near homes and villages. 
 
Initially observed in the Barind region of Rajshahi, this issue has gradually spread nationwide. Several farmers in the Barind region have been bitten by these snakes, with a high possibility of fatalities from such bites prompting demands to the government for widespread distribution of vaccines.
 
Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. Samanta Lal Sen has advised not to panic about the venomous Chandrabura or Russell's viper. He stated, "As the Health Minister, I assure you there's no need to worry. Our hospitals have sufficient supplies of antivenom for treating bites from Russell's viper. I have given clear instructions that there should be no shortage of antivenom under any circumstances."
 
Following this directive, 180 doses of Anti Snake Venom have been allocated for snakebite patients in Rajshahi district. These will be distributed to 20 Upazila Health Complexes besides the main district Civil Surgeon's office.
 
Regarding this, Dr. Abu Syed Mohammad Faruq, Civil Surgeon of Rajshahi district, mentioned, "The incidence of Russell's viper snake bites has increased primarily in this region. Several people are fearful in this area. The government has allocated Anti Snake Venom for patients bitten by these snakes. We will receive these vaccines today (Wednesday, June 26). 20 doses will be allocated to each Upazila Health Complex. I would like to clarify that these vaccines are provided free of cost to snakebite patients." He further added, "These vaccines will work to treat patients bitten by any snake, not just Russell's viper."
 
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