3. Snake
Estimated Deaths Per Year: ~50,000–100,000
Location: South Asia, Africa, Southeast Asia
Snakes are responsible for the highest number of venom-related deaths globally. In India alone, more than 45,000 people die each year from snakebites, primarily due to four major species — the Indian cobra, Russell’s viper, saw-scaled viper, and common krait.
Most bites happen in rural farming areas where snakes are accidentally stepped on or provoked. These snakes have venom that affects the nervous system, blood clotting, or muscles. Death can occur within hours if antivenom isn’t administered.
One major problem is the lack of trained medical personnel and poor supply of antivenom in remote villages. Traditional healing practices delay life-saving care. Nighttime bites are especially dangerous due to poor lighting and sleeping on the ground.
Organizations like WHO have declared snakebite a neglected tropical disease, pushing for better treatment access and public awareness campaigns in high-risk countries.
