RAJSHAHI, Oct 24, 2025 (BSS) - Rajshahi Medical College Hospital (RMCH) has launched a specialized ward dedicated to the treatment of snakebite patients - the first of its kind in the country.

The initiative aims to reduce the death rate caused by snakebites and ensure faster, more effective treatment for affected patients.

RMCH Director Brigadier General FM Shameem Ahmed inaugurated the newly established Snakebite and Toxicology Ward on Thursday, describing it as a high-dependency unit (HDU) standard facility. He said patients suffering from respiratory distress, cardiac failure, and other critical complications will receive treatment completely free of cost.

The new ward has accommodation facilities for eight male and four female patients. Emergency treatment will also be available for patients outside the ward when required.

Dr Abu Shaheen Muhammad Mahbubur Rahman, Associate Professor of the Department of Medicine, told BSS that RMCH treated 1,205 snakebite patients from January to October this year, of whom 260 were attacked by venomous snakes.

"Earlier, doctors and nurses were shortlisted and trained following the national snakebite management guideline before preparing the ward," he added.

Dr Rahman also mentioned that the hospital recorded a 27 percent death rate among Russell viper bite victims between 2016 and 2023. However, fatalities have dropped significantly in recent years due to improved treatment facilities.

Brig Gen Shameem Ahmed said snakebite victims previously received treatment in general wards and often arrived late at the hospital.

"Now, with a dedicated HDU-standard emergency unit and 24-hour medical supervision, snakebite patients will receive immediate and specialized care," he said.

"With the new ward, integrated care will be ensured through round-the-clock doctors and nurses, as well as adequate antivenom supplies. This will help further reduce snakebite-related deaths," he added.

Each antivenom dose costs around Tk 13,000 and typically requires 10 vials, while many patients need multiple doses.

"All treatment and medicines will be provided entirely free of charge, and treatment will begin immediately upon arrival - there will be no delay," the RMCH director said.