Anti-Venom For Snakebites Available In Public Hospitals – FCTA

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has assured residents that anti- venom for snake bites is readily available in all FCTA-owned public hospitals, as part of efforts to curb deaths from snakebites across the territory.

The assurance was given by the Mandate Secretary, Health Services and Environment Secretariat, Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, while expressing condolences to the family of Ms. Ifunanya Lucy Nwangene, who died from neurotoxic complications following a snakebite.

Dr Fasawe urged residents to contact the FCT Emergency Medical System and Ambulance Services on 090157892931 or 090157892932 in case of snakebite or other medical emergencies.

She described the incident as a painful and distressing loss, stressing that snakebite-related deaths are largely preventable and must be addressed with stronger health and emergency responses.

Dr. Fasawe explained that snakebites constitute a major public health concern, noting that venomous species such as cobras, vipers and puff adders are common in Nigeria.

She emphasized that all snakebites should be treated as venomous until medically proven otherwise and urged residents to seek immediate hospital care.

According to her, different types of anti-snake venom, including polyvalent and multivalent antivenoms, are stocked across FCTA public health facilities.

The antivenoms are centrally stored at the Abuja Central Medical Stores and managed by the Secretariat to ensure quality, proper cold-chain maintenance and constant availability, with stocking guided by collaboration with veterinary experts familiar with snake species in the FCT.

She also outlined preventive measures and first aid steps, advising residents to wear protective clothing, clear bushes around homes, avoid dark areas at night, and never handle snakes.

“In the event of a bite, victims should remain calm, immobilise the affected limb, avoid harmful practices such as tourniquets or herbal remedies, and proceed immediately to a hospital.”

“I want to reiterate that all healthcare facilities public and private must adhere strictly to approved clinical protocols. Monitoring and enforcement will be intensified, and facilities found negligent will face sanctions, “Fasawe warned.

She assured that the FCTA remains resolute in strengthening emergency systems, enforcing quality healthcare standards, and protecting the lives of all residents of the Federal Capital Territory.

Fasawe added that the FCTA has enhanced emergency response, expanded road networks and deployed 12 new ambulances equipped for emergencies.

Remi Johnson, Edited By Grace Namiji