KATHMANDU: Minister for Health and Food Safety, Nisha Mehta, has said that coordination is being done between the central, provincial and local level health agencies to prevent shortage of anti-snake venom for the treatment of snakebites.

Responding to health-related questions raised by the lawmakers during the House of Representatives meeting today, Minister Mehta said that there are currently 1,269 anti-snake venom vials at all three levels and that 850 snakebite patients can be treated with it.

Stating that the Department of Health Services has initiated the procurement for 13,200 vials of anti-snake venom, Minister Mehta mentioned that the supply will be completed by July end.

Minister Mehta stressed that the situation of snakebite patients is further complicated not only due to lack of venom but also due to traditional and unscientific primary treatment at home instead of going to the treatment center immediately.

On a different note, she clarified that the government is serious about making the health service delivery more qualitative, effective and accessible, and called for public awareness through collaboration and coordination between people’s representatives and various sections of society.