By Kunle Sanni –
The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has confirmed that anti-snake venom is readily available in all government-owned hospitals across the FCT, assuring residents of prompt treatment for snakebite cases.
The confirmation was made on Monday by the Health Services and Environment Secretariat (HSES) following the death of Ms Ifunanya Lucy Nwangene, who reportedly died from complications related to a snakebite. The FCTA expressed condolences to the deceased’s family, describing the incident as tragic and preventable.
The Mandate Secretary of HSES, Dr Adedolapo Fasawe, said snakebites remain a significant public health issue, particularly in farming communities and areas close to bushes and undeveloped land. She stressed that every snakebite should be considered potentially dangerous until properly assessed by a medical professional.
Dr Fasawe advised residents to take preventive measures such as clearing bushes around homes and farms, wearing protective clothing while farming, using light sources at night, and avoiding direct contact with snakes. She added that individuals bitten by snakes should remain calm, keep the affected limb immobilised, and seek immediate medical care.
She warned against harmful first-aid practices, including cutting the wound, tying the limb tightly, or applying herbal substances, noting that such actions often worsen outcomes. The mandate secretary also cautioned against the unsupervised use of anti-snake venom, explaining that it can trigger severe reactions if not administered by trained health workers in a hospital setting.
To strengthen emergency response, the FCTA has deployed 12 fully equipped care ambulances across Abuja to support rapid evacuation and treatment of snakebite victims. Dr Fasawe added that all health facilities are required to adhere strictly to approved clinical protocols, with sanctions prescribed for negligence.
