According to The Punch reporting on February 4, 2026, medical experts from the Toxinological Society of Nigeria have warned that traditional methods of treating snakebites, such as tying the affected limb, are significantly reducing victims’ chances of survival. Data released by the society indicates that Nigeria records approximately 43,000 snakebite cases annually, resulting in nearly 1,900 deaths due to improper first aid and lack of anti-venom.
The experts are calling on the Federal Government to provide emergency funding for snakebite control, particularly in rural farming communities where the risk is highest. They noted that many Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) lack the necessary anti-snake venom, forcing victims to rely on herbalists or unproven traditional remedies that often lead to complications like gangrene.
Additional reporting from Channels TV and Vanguard validates the call for government intervention. Channels TV highlights a recent tragedy involving a singer whose death was linked to a lack of immediate medical antidotes, quoting a doctor who said, “PHCs should have anti-snake venom as a basic medicine, not a luxury.” Vanguard reports on efforts in the Federal Capital Territory (FCTA) to curb snakebite deaths, with an official stating, “We are launching a prevention awareness campaign across all area councils.”
Echotitbits take: Snakebites remain a neglected tropical disease that affects the most vulnerable—rural farmers. The lack of anti-venom in PHCs is a systemic failure that directly impacts food security, as farmers fear going to their fields. This is an area where state and federal governments need to collaborate on local production of anti-venom to reduce costs and save lives.
Source: The Punch – https://punchng.com/tying-legs-after-snakebite-reduces-victims-chances-of-survival-experts/, February 4, 2026
Photo credit: The Punch
