Senate demands nationwide antivenom availability to prevent deaths

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has urged the Federal Ministry of Health and NAFDAC to ensure antivenoms are available nationwide, following the death of singer Nanyah from a snakebite. The resolution follows the January 31st death of 26-year-old Ifunanya Lucy Nwangene, who died after seeking treatment for a snakebite in Abuja. Despite receiving care at Federal Medical Centre, she reportedly lacked sufficient antivenom doses. The Senate resolution calls for procurement, quality assurance, and nationwide distribution of antivenoms with priority for high-risk regions. WHO guidelines emphasize immediate medical care for snakebites, including immobilization and transport to facilities without delay. Implementation details remain pending.

SOURCE: https://nairametrics.com/2026/02/03/snake-bite-senate-calls-for-mandatory-antivenom-in-hospitals/