Nigeria Faces Urgent Call to Address High Cost of Treating Snakebites
The tragic death of Abuja-based singer Ifunanya Nwangen has brought attention to the significant challenges faced in treating snakebites in Nigeria. The Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN) has renewed its urgent call for local action following the incident.
Despite snakebites being treatable conditions, Nigeria records numerous deaths annually due to lack of access to quality antivenom. Ambrose Ez, the ACPN national chairman, revealed that Nigeria currently spends nearly $12 million annually on importing snake antivenom, which is unsustainable and dangerous.
The country aims to reduce snakebite-related deaths by half by 2030, as per the World Health Organization's goal. The lack of financial protection and delays in treatment worsen outcomes, leading to permanent disabilities and deaths.
The Federal Ministry of Health has acknowledged the need for urgent investment in local production, insurance coverage, manpower training, and public awareness to address this critical public health issue.
Plus234Feed summary based on reporting from Legit.ng. Read the original report below.
Read full article
Continue on Legit.ng
Get the week in one email
Top stories, NPFL results, the naira — every Friday morning. Free, one email a week.
Related Stories
Nigerian Singer Dies Due to Hospital Negligence After Snakebite Complications
Nigerian Singer Nanyah Dies After Snake Bite at Home, Brother Highlights Healthcare System Failures
Nigerian Singer Ifunanya Nwangene Laid to Rest in Enugu
Clinician Urges Overhaul of Public Health Education After Nigerian Singer's Snakebite Death
Nigeria Faces Rising Snakebite Fatalities Amid Antivenom Shortages
Nigerian Senate Calls for Mandatory Antivenom in Hospitals After Rising Singer Dies from Snakebite
Get Plus234Feed on messaging apps
Same headlines, delivered where you already scroll.
