Many Nigerian clinics lack resources for snakebite treatment
At least half of health facilities in Nigeria are unable to treat snakebite envenoming, according to a new report. The findings highlight ongoing issues such as poor infrastructure, antivenom shortages, and delays in patient care, especially in rural areas. Elhadj As Sy and Joy Phumaphi have called for urgent action and increased investment to address the crisis. Snakebite envenoming remains a major but preventable threat, disproportionately affecting vulnerable communities.
What we know
- The Strike Out Snakebite initiative found that 50% of Nigerian health facilities lack full capacity to manage snakebite cases.
- 98% of healthcare workers in Nigeria reported challenges administering antivenom, and 35% face daily shortages.
- Delays in reaching care, poor infrastructure, and lack of training are major contributors to avoidable deaths and disabilities.
- Snakebite envenoming is described as a crisis of inequality, mainly impacting rural communities, children, and agricultural workers.
- Experts urge governments and partners to invest in better antivenom production, infrastructure, and community education to reduce preventable deaths.
