Health experts have urged the Federal Government to prioritise antivenom production and availability across hospitals nationwide as Nigeria records 43,000 snakebite cases annually
The senior health professionals stated that limited access to the life-saving treatment continues to fuel snakebite de.aths in the country.
The experts noted that aside from the scarcity of antivenom, snakebite victims pay between N180,000 and N250,000 per dose, an amount equivalent to about four months’ total income for Nigerians earning the N70,000 minimum wage.
The experts who are researchers on Neglected Tropical Diseases explained that weak health systems, poor infrastructure, and shortages of antivenom continue to drive preventable de.aths and long-term disabilities, as 50 per cent of health facilities in the country lack the capacity to treat snakebite envenoming.
The experts called on the Federal Government to subsidise antivenom costs, import cheaper alternatives while developing local production capacity, and make the treatment freely available at primary healthcare centres nationwide.
Recall just recently an Abuja-based rising singer, Ifunanya Nwangene, 26, reportedly d!ed after a snakebite.
Nwangene rose to national prominence after appearing on The Voice Nigeria in 2021 and was known for her unique blend of jazz, opera, classical music, and soul.
The Toxinological Society of Nigeria recently disclosed that Nigeria records approximately 43,000 snakebite cases every year, with nearly 1,900 de.aths.
Follow Us on Facebook – @LadunLiadi; Instagram – @LadunLiadi; Twitter – @LadunLiadi; Youtube – @LadunLiadiTV for updates
