Context: Snakebite is common problem in rural India and common in dense forest area like Bastar region of Chhattisgarh. Tribal people have their local remedies for its treatment. Uninformed community members resorting to harmful traditional measures may cause vital time loss for patient’s survival. Aims: Study is conducted to assess the knowledge, myths and misconceptions around snake bite in rural area of Bastar, Chhattisgarh. Settings and Design: An observational, cross sectional study was conducted in eight villages of Bastar, Chhattisgarh. Methods and Material: Data was collected using a pre-designed and pre-tested schedule for interviews. Statistical analysis used: Microsoft Excel XLSTAT and the results were calculated in frequencies and percentages. Results: Farming was the main profession (40%) and only 66.2% of the study population was aware that the incidence of snakebite can be reduced. About 33.8% were aware that initial first aid measure was to immobilize the affected part and only 26.9% were aware that the application of the collar was unnecessary and harmful. Correct knowledge on the availability of specific treatment was present in about 56.2% and only 50% knew where specific treatment is available. Conclusions: Study shows scarcity of knowledge on the first aid following snake bite and misconceptions on the role of snake charmers. Therefore, there is an imperative need to educate community on first aid treatments and their belief in tantric or Baiga for traditional treatments methods for snake bites. There is a need to implement awareness programs on snake bite in at risk communities of Bastar region.

Keywords: Snake bite, Bastar, Chhattisgarh, Knowledge, Myths