The Federal Capital Territory Administration has assured residents that all public hospitals and health centres in Abuja have sufficient antivenom to treat snakebites. This comes after the recent death of singer Ifunanya Nwangene sparked concerns over access to emergency care.
The FCTA explained that both polyvalent and multivalent antivenoms are available across all FCTA-run facilities. Stocking decisions are based on studies of common snake species in the territory. The antivenoms are stored centrally in the Abuja Central Medical Stores and monitored to ensure quality and proper storage conditions.
Authorities noted that Nwangene’s death at the Federal Medical Centre, Jabi, was due to severe neurotoxic complications from a snakebite. Hospital staff provided prompt treatment, including stabilization and preparation for intensive care, but her condition suddenly worsened, and resuscitation efforts were unsuccessful.
The FCTA urged residents to take snakebites seriously and adopt preventive measures such as wearing protective clothing on farms or in tall grass, clearing debris around homes, sealing entry points, and avoiding handling snakes. In the event of a bite, victims should stay calm, immobilize the affected limb below heart level, gently clean the wound, and go immediately to a hospital with antivenom. Dangerous practices like cutting the wound, sucking the venom, applying ice, or using herbal remedies were discouraged.
To improve emergency response, the FCTA has expanded road networks and deployed 12 ambulances equipped to handle medical emergencies. Hospitals provide antivenom administration, monitoring for adverse reactions, and supportive care. Intensive care services, including airway management, blood transfusions, and coagulation monitoring, are available when needed.
Officials warned that all public and private healthcare facilities must follow approved clinical protocols, and any negligence will result in sanctions. Residents were advised to use official emergency numbers for ambulance services: 090157892931 and 090157892932. The FCTA reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining quality healthcare and protecting lives in the territory.
CLICK THE LINK TO READ FULL LIST
- Advertisement -
Comments are closed.