The recent sightings of Russell's vipers in rural areas and urban outskirts of Bangladesh have led to increased fear among the public. Widespread rumours have further led to misinformation, misguiding people and causing panic. To address this, it is crucial to evaluate facts about the snake, ensuring communities are better prepared to handle abrupt encounters. Let's go over facts, myths, and the origin of Russell's viper. Introducing Russell's Viper This venomous snake, known scientifically as ‘Daboia russelii’, belongs to the family Viperidae. The species was named in honor of Patrick Russell, a Scottish herpetologist renowned for his pioneering descriptions of many snakes native to India. The genus name, ‘Daboia’, is derived from a Hindi word meaning ‘that lies hid’ or ‘the lurker’. However, recent studies have reclassified these South Asian snakes as a separate species, ‘Daboia siamensis’. The type locality is specifically listed as Coromandel Coast, India, as inferred by Russell in 1796. This southeastern coastal region of the Indian subcontinent borders the Bay of Bengal, where Bangladesh is also located. In Bangladesh, the snake is known as ‘Chandrabora’. Originally, this viper was primarily found in the Barendra region of Bangladesh. However, its range has expanded significantly to include areas along the banks of the Padma, Meghna, and Jamuna rivers. The spread of this snake has caused widespread panic in numerous regions, including Barishal, Patuakhali, Manikganj, Faridpur, Shariatpur, Chandpur, and even villages on the outskirts of Dhaka. Presently, this venomous reptile is reported in at least 25 districts across Bangladesh. Read more: Locals rush to catch Russell’s vipers after bounty announcement by Faridpur AL leader Russell's Viper: Myth vs. Reality False information regarding this viper has been spreading across social media platforms, causing extensive public panic in Bangladesh. These misleading posts have generated significant misconceptions about the snake and its prevalence. However, the facts differ greatly from these rumors. Let's explore the most popular myths and the truths behind them. Native or Non-native to Bangladesh? Contrary to popular belief, Russell’s viper is native to Bangladesh as well as other countries in Southeast Asia. It was initially described in 1797 by English naturalist George Shaw and illustrator Frederick Polydore Nodder. According to the article ‘Russell's Viper (Daboia russelii) in Bangladesh: Its Boom and Threat to Human Life’, of the Asiatic Society of Bangladesh Science in 2018, two species of these snakes exist globally. Daboia Russelii is found in India, Pakistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, and Bangladesh, whereas Daboia siamensis inhabits China, Thailand, Myanmar, Indonesia, Cambodia, and Taiwan. The species was classified as 'critically endangered' in 2000 and remained 'near-threatened' at least until 2015 in Bangladesh by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. Read more: What to do when you encounter a Russell's Viper: Environment Ministry issues guidelines Chasing People to Bite? In 2021, Mongabay published a research paper titled ‘Tracking Russell's viper in rural Karnataka unravels their behavior’, authored by organismal biologist Xavier Glaudas. Throughout his study, Glaudas had numerous close encounters with these vipers, yet remarkably, he was never bitten. He attributed this to the snake's tendency to remain concealed within vegetation. These vipers typically exhibit immobility when approached, occasionally retreating deeper into foliage or retracting their heads for camouflage.

Amid growing concerns over the recent sightings of Russell's Viper (Chandrabora) in various parts of the country, the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change has issued vital information and guidance to ensure public safety and welfare. Understanding the Russell's Viper Threat While the presence of Russell's Vipers is alarming, it is essential to note that human encounters with these snakes are unlikely. These snakes typically inhabit lowland grasslands, thickets, open forests, and agricultural areas, avoiding human settlements. Their earth-colored bodies allow them to blend seamlessly with the ground, increasing the risk of accidental encounters. Russell's Vipers are excellent swimmers and have spread to different regions of Bangladesh through river currents and floodwaters. Consequently, the public is urged to exercise increased caution, especially in flood-prone areas. Health Minister orders ensuring adequate stock of Russell's Viper antivenom in all hospitals Safety Guidelines to Prevent Snakebites To minimize the risk of snake bites, the Ministry recommends the following precautions: Exercise caution in snake-prone areas: Be vigilant when driving or walking in areas where Russell's Vipers have been spotted. Avoid tall grass and bushes: Steer clear of reaching into holes or moving through tall grass and bushes without visibility. Wear protective clothing: Use boots and long pants when working in or traversing affected areas. Use lighting at night: Carry a torch or flashlight when moving around at night to spot snakes. Maintain clean surroundings: Keep your home and its surroundings clean and free of garbage to avoid attracting snakes. Handle fallen debris with care: Take special care when removing fallen trees, firewood, and straw. Do not confront snakes: If you encounter a snake, do not try to catch or kill it. Instead, call the National Helpline at 333 or inform the nearest Forest Department office. Read more: Child dies from snakebite in Manikganj Immediate Actions After a Snakebite In the unfortunate event of a snake bite, follow these crucial steps: Minimize movement: Do not move the bitten limb. If bitten on the leg, sit down and avoid walking. If bitten on the hand, keep it still. Movement can cause the venom to spread more quickly through the bloodstream. Clean the wound: Gently wash the affected area with soap or wipe with a wet cloth. Remove restrictive items: Take off watches, jewelry, or tight clothing near the bite site. Avoid harmful interventions: Do not prick, needle, or apply ointments or other substances to the bite. Seek immediate medical help: Avoid wasting time with traditional healers (Ojha). Go to the nearest hospital or healthcare center as soon as possible. Stay calm: Do not panic; Russell's viper antivenom is available free of charge at government hospitals. Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. Samanta Lal Sen has assured that the country has sufficient antivenom supplies and hospitals have been instructed to stock them adequately. Measures to Control Russell's Viper Population Certain wildlife species such as mongoose, monitor lizards, forest cats, eagles, cranes play a crucial role in controlling the Russell's Viper population by preying on them. The indiscriminate killing of these animals has led to an increase in the viper population. The Environment Ministry urges the public to avoid killing these wildlife species or destroying their habitats. Protecting these natural predators helps maintain ecological balance and controls the Russell's Viper population. Environmental Importance of Russell's Vipers The Russell's Viper is a protected species under Section 6(1) of the Wildlife (Conservation and Security) Act, 2012. These snakes play a significant role in maintaining environmental balance and biodiversity by controlling rodent populations and contributing to the production of life-saving medicines from their venom. Killing these snakes is a punishable offense, and the public is advised against such actions. Government and Community Actions Under the guidance of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change Minister Saber Hossain Chowdhury, the Bangladesh Forest Department is implementing various measures to address the situation. Local authorities and community organizations are requested to conduct awareness programs to educate the public about safety measures and the importance of preserving wildlife. The situation is being actively monitored, and updates will be provided as necessary to ensure public safety and environmental conservation. Read more: Lethal Russell's Viper snake rescued in Kushtia