Manipal: Centre for Wilderness Medicine at Kasturba Hospital launches VENOMS Helpline
Manipal, Sept. 19, 2025: The Centre for Wilderness Medicine at Kasturba Hospital, Manipal, on Friday launched the VENOMS Helpline, a dedicated service to respond to snakebite and other venom-related emergencies.
The initiative has been developed in collaboration with the Department of Emergency Medical Technology, Manipal College of Health Professions, MAHE, and the District Surveillance Office, Udupi.
The helpline was inaugurated by District Surveillance Officer Dr. Nagarathna, who stressed the role of public–private partnerships in handling medical emergencies such as snakebites. She was joined by Deputy Surveillance Officer Dr. Tejaswini Patil.
Dr. Sudhakar Kantipudi, Chief Operating Officer of the Manipal Cluster, attended as Guest of Honour and lauded MAHE’s efforts in community health outreach.
Kasturba Hospital Medical Superintendent Dr. Avinash Shetty, Professor and Head of Emergency Medicine Dr. Vimal Krishnan S, former head of the department Dr. Jayaraj Mymbilly Balakrishnan, and Centre for Wilderness Medicine Coordinator Dr. Freston Marc Sirur were among those present.
Speaking at the launch, Dr. Freston said the helpline was aimed at closing the gap between snakebite incidents and timely treatment. “Our goal is to provide rapid guidance and support to save lives and reduce complications caused by delayed care,” he said.
Dr. Vrinda Lath, Assistant Professor in Emergency Medicine, outlined the care pathway for victims, while Ms. Usha, faculty in the Department of Emergency Medical Technology, presented research findings from the VENOMS registry.
