As South Africa approaches summer and snakes become more active, antivenom stock shortages are a serious concern. African Snakebite Institute CEO Johan Marais warns that while only 15% of snakebite victims require antivenom, existing stocks are insufficient to meet the demand. He highlights the need for increased production and distribution of antivenom to ensure timely treatment for those affected by venomous snakes.
The green, left, and black mambas are among South Africa ’s most venomous snakes . Picture: African Snakebite InstituteANTIVENOM stock shortages are “dire” as South Africa approaches summer and snakes become more active.
Marais said in South Africa antivenom was only manufactured by the South African Vaccine Producers , an entity which falls under the National Health Laboratory Service. Marais said many doctors battled to get antivenom and a lot of the antivenom available was used on dogs. Apart from the actual manufacturing process, you need many horses which must also be fed, have a place to stay and vet bills must be paid, he said.
The World Health Organization said snakebites were a neglected public health issue in many tropical and subtropical countries and most of these occured in Africa, Asia and Latin America. It said in Africa there were an estimated 435 000 to 580 000 snake bites annually that needed treatment. “Snakes are far more likely to come into contact with people in the hotter months when they’re livelier and breeding. That’s when we see an increase in the number of people seeking often-lifesaving treatment for snakebites.”
Antivenom Snakebites South Africa Health Crisis Venomous Snakes
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