The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has issued a warning regarding potential penalties for both public and private healthcare institutions that do not comply with established clinical protocols.
This declaration was made by the Mandate Secretary for Health Services and the Environment, Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, during a statement released on Tuesday following the passing of Ms. Ifunanya Lucy Nwangene, who succumbed to neurotoxic complications resulting from a snake bite.
Dr. Fasawe extended her heartfelt sympathies to Ms. Nwangene's family, highlighting the tragic loss of a promising young individual as profoundly sorrowful and troubling.
“I empathize with the family during this painful time and emphasize that deaths that could have been avoided through medical intervention must be addressed with urgency and proactive measures to avert future occurrences,” Fasawe remarked.
She noted that snakebites continue to pose a largely preventable public health threat, reminding that all snakebites should be treated as venomous unless verified otherwise.
The Mandate Secretary encouraged residents of the FCT to embrace preventive strategies, including wearing appropriate clothing while on farms or traversing tall grass, avoiding poorly-lit areas or carrying flashlights at night, maintaining clean surroundings, securing entry points, and steering clear of handling snakes.
In the case of a snakebite, she advised that the immediate first aid response should include remaining calm, keeping the affected limb still and below heart level, removing any tight items, gently cleansing the bite area, and promptly seeking medical attention at a facility equipped with antivenom.
Dr. Fasawe cautioned against harmful traditional practices, such as cutting or sucking the wound, utilizing tourniquets, ice, or herbal treatments.
The FCTA reassured the public that various types of anti-snake venom are readily available within its hospitals and health centers.
“We maintain a stock of polyvalent and multivalent antivenoms, which are centrally stored in the Abuja Central Medical Stores operated by the FCTA to ensure quality, effective storage conditions, and accessibility.
“Timely treatment is crucial; while antivenom is most effective when administered shortly after a bite, it does not guarantee recovery, especially when neurotoxic symptoms have developed, highlighting the necessity for rapid transport to medical facilities.
“Healthcare providers are prepared to administer antivenom, immobilize the affected area (without tourniquets), monitor for any adverse effects, and provide supportive care. Advanced medical care, including ICU admissions, airway management, coagulation assessments, and blood transfusions, is available across hospitals in the FCT,” Fasawe added.
She reiterated that the FCTA is committed to bolstering emergency response systems, enforcing healthcare standards, and safeguarding the lives of all residents of the Federal Capital Territory.
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