Abuja snakebite: FCTA laments death of Ifunanya, provides emergency numbers for anti-venoms
FCTA Initiates Measures to Combat Snakebite Deaths
The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) announced plans to address the rising incidence of snakebite-related fatalities within the territory.
On Tuesday, Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, Mandate Secretary of the Health Services and Environment Secretariat, issued a statement expressing condolences to the family of Ms. Ifunanya Lucy Nwangene, who recently died from neurotoxic complications following a snakebite.
“The loss of a promising young life is deeply painful. I share in the family’s grief and emphasize that such medically preventable deaths must be taken seriously, necessitating strengthened measures to avert similar occurrences,” Fasawe stated.
Highlighting the preventable nature of snakebites, Fasawe noted that snakes are commonly found in rainforests, grasslands, farmlands, and semi-arid regions, often near human habitats. She urged residents to treat all snakebites as venomous until proven otherwise, given the presence of highly venomous species like cobras, vipers, and puff adders in Nigeria.
To mitigate the risks associated with snakebites, Fasawe encouraged residents to adopt several safety measures. These include wearing protective clothing while farming, avoiding dark areas at night without adequate lighting, clearing debris near homes, sealing entry points, and refraining from handling snakes.
In the event of a snakebite, she advised immediate first aid actions such as remaining calm, immobilizing the affected limb below heart level, and seeking prompt medical care at a hospital equipped with antivenom. She cautioned against harmful practices, including cutting or sucking the wound and using tourniquets or herbal remedies.
Fasawe assured that various types of antivenom are readily available at FCTA-owned hospitals and health facilities. “Polyvalent and multivalent antivenoms are centrally stored in the Abuja Central Medical Stores, managed by the Secretariat to ensure their quality and availability,” she said, emphasizing the critical importance of timely treatment.
While antivenom is most effective when administered early, Fasawe warned that recovery is not guaranteed if neurotoxic symptoms have developed, stressing the necessity for rapid evacuation.
To further decrease response times, the FCTA has expanded road networks and recently acquired 12 ambulances equipped for emergency situations. Hospitals are prepared to administer antivenom and provide additional care, including monitoring for adverse reactions and offering supportive treatments.
Fasawe reiterated the importance of adhering to approved clinical protocols across all healthcare facilities, both public and private. “Monitoring and enforcement will be intensified; facilities found negligent will face sanctions,” she stated.
For emergencies, residents are advised to contact the FCT Emergency Medical System and Ambulance Services at 090157892931 or 090157892932.
The FCTA remains committed to enhancing emergency systems, upholding healthcare standards, and safeguarding the lives of all residents in the Federal Capital Territory.
