Gov. Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau
By Blessing Odega
The Plateau Government has affirmed the availability of free anti-snake venoms called Echitab Polyvalent Anti-Snake Venom (ASV) in designated health facilities across the state.
Mr Kim Bot, Executive Secretary (ES), Plateau State Drugs and Medical Commodities Management Agency (PS-DMCMA), made the disclosure in a statement on Monday in Jos.
Bot, who is a pharmacist, said snakebite is a medical emergency, and as such, no life would be lost due to lack of access, cost, or delay in getting the antivenom in Plateau.
According to him, a deliberate, well-coordinated supply chain of Echitab Anti-Snake Venom had been done, and the ASV was stocked in strategic hospitals, general hospitals, and treatment centres.
Bot said the act was to ensure that every victim, whether in a remote village or an urban centre, could receive accessible lifesaving treatment without incurring financial burden.
“We assure the public that adequate quantities of Echitab ASV are in stock and distribution is ongoing in the 17 local government areas (LGAs) and at all designated treatment centres.
“Health workers have been instructed to administer it immediately when diagnosed, and no patient should be asked to pay for it, not even a naira.
“Any health facility, staff, or individual found withholding, diverting, or charging for this life-saving drug will be dealt with decisively,“ he cautioned.
The ES commended Plateau Governor Caleb Mutfwang for his humane intervention in procuring Echitab Anti-Snake Venom and making it completely free of charge.
He said the gesture by the governor would save hundreds of lives and reduce the spate of disability and suffering of victims of snakebite and also restore confidence in the public health care system. (NAN)(http://www.nannews.ng)
