“PHARMACISTS URGE LOCAL ANTIVENOM PRODUCTION TO SAVE LIVES”
GREATRIBUNETVNEWS–THE Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN) is calling on the Federal Government to take urgent action to address the country’s snakebite crisis. Here are the key issues highlighted by the ACPN:
– Preventable Deaths : Nigeria records an estimated 2,000 preventable deaths annually due to snakebites.
– Inadequate Treatment : Over 20,000 snakebite cases are reported annually, with 1,700 victims suffering permanent disabilities.
– High Treatment Cost : The average treatment cost of ₦40,000 is out of reach for most rural Nigerians.
– Dependence on Imports : Nigeria spends nearly $12 million annually on imported antivenom vials.
– Systemic Challenges : “Referral trap,” stock-outs, and limited manpower in peripheral facilities continue to endanger lives.
– Need for Local Production : A one-off government investment of $12 million is needed to establish a local antivenom production plant.
The ACPN is urging the government to prioritize local manufacturing, include antivenoms in the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) scheme, and address administrative interference undermining Drug Revolving Funds (DRF) in public hospitals
As part of an eight-point roadmap, the association recommended decentralising snakebite treatment to Primary Health Care Centres (PHCs), strengthening early referral systems through collaboration with traditional rulers and healers, and intensifying public education to discourage harmful traditional practices such as the use of “black stones.”
About the Author
