Dangerous Snakes Invade Plateau State, Kill 600 Per Month

Dangerous snakes are said to have invaded the south and central parts of Plateau state, killing an average of 600 inhabitants per month.
The species of the snakes are given as Black Mamba, Carpet Viper and Puss Adder which are said to be violently attacking and killing the people living in such areas.
The frequency of the snake attacks has made the state government to order the procurement of anti-snake venom as part of the solution to the menace.
Besides, the Permanent Secretary in the state’s Ministry of Health, Habila Gwatau, called on the residents to always clear the bushes around their homes and ensure constant use of boots and industrial hand gloves when going to farm.
“We believe that if the people take some of these tips and measures seriously, the menace will be reduced.”
He confirmed that an average of between 15 and 25 snake bites are reported everyday, with “about 600 persons in a month,” saying that the anti-snake drugs, which would be administered on the victims free, would go a long way to save the victims.
“I can’t tell you the exact amount government is spending, but millions of naira have been voted for a massive quantity of the anti-venom for the treatment of victims of those dangerous snakes.
“We must rise to the challenge to save the lives of our citizens from those dangerous snakes.”
Gwatau said three Hospitals – General Hosptial, Dengi; General Hospital, Shendam; and JUTH Comprehensive Health Centre, Zamko – have been designated for the distribution of the drugs.
He said that the state Governor, Simon Lalong is very worried by the spate of snake attacks and had directed the health ministry to arrest the situation.
The permanent secretary said that the ministry would carry out an assessment of the three designated hospitals next week to ascertain their capacity before the supply of the anti-venom.
According to Gwatau, the ministry has carried out sensitisation campaigns to enlighten people in the affected areas to be more careful and use protective materials while entering bushes around them. (NAN). [myad]