WhatsApp chatbot can be accessed via a QR code or by messaging “Hi” to +91 9154190472.
Karnataka’s first-of-its-kind WhatsApp chatbot has been launched in Mysore to educate citizens about snakes and snakebite prevention. Launched by Humane Society International/India in collaboration with The Liana Trust, the chatbot provides easily accessible information about snake species found in the vicinity, lifesaving snakebite first-aid, snakebite prevention tips, and myth-busting around misinformation about snakes that can lead to acts of cruelty.
The automated chatbot disseminates engaging, visual content in English or Kannada, making it easy to understand. Through the WhatsApp chatbot initiative, both organisations aim to reach at least a lakh users this year in Mysore to foster coexistence with snakes and prevent snakebites.
India has the unfortunate reputation for having more snakebites than any other country in the world, contributing to almost 50 per cent of snakebite deaths across the globe. India witnesses ten lakh snakebites a year, leading to nearly 58,000 human snakebite-related deaths and 200,000 cases of morbidity annually. Karnataka alone had 6,500 reported snakebites in 2023. It is also a neglected tropical disease, classified by the World Health Organization, taking a devastating toll on the socioeconomics of households and the mental health of those affected.
Vinod Krishnan, human-wildlife coexistence manager at Humane Society International/India, said: “Snakebite is a mass problem which requires a mass solution. As per our survey in the Mysore district, WhatsApp is one of the most used digital apps. Hence, this is an easy platform to reach many people with vital information that could save human lives and prevent snake persecution. While there is venom research and strengthening of healthcare infrastructure overall to ensure quality care for those affected, preventing a bite from occurring and knowing the right first aid once a bite occurs is crucial.”
Gerry Martin, founder of The Liana Trust, said: “As we progress in avenues of public outreach, our methods need to evolve and keep with the times. The chatbot is a great way to have a continuous dialogue with the community, assess the information they are accessing the most, and add further layers to this such as information on the nearest hospital, ambulance services and so on in the future.”
