In Gombe State, Nigeria, patients affected by snakebites are facing a significant challenge due to the high cost of treatment. At the Kaltungo hospital, which specializes in snakebite treatment and research, 726 cases were recorded between January and June, resulting in 24 deaths. Patients are calling on the government to intervene and provide affordable access to life-saving anti-snake venom.

According to patients who spoke to the media, the cost of treatment is prohibitively expensive, with a single vial of anti-snake venom costing up to N250,000. Many patients are forced to purchase the medication from external sources, which can be financially draining. Ali Idris, a resident of Bojude Village, spent eight days in the hospital after being bitten by a snake and had to purchase two vials of the drug at a total cost of N500,000.

The economic burden of snakebite treatment is taking a toll on patients, with many struggling to afford the medication. Abubakar Muhammed, a patient from Abuja-Bula, spent two days in the hospital and managed to buy one vial of anti-snake venom for N250,000, but noted that many patients are unable to pay for treatment and are forced to borrow money from friends and relatives.

The hospital’s Principal Medical Officer, Dr. Nicholas Hamman, stated that the state and federal governments are working to procure 5,000 vials of anti-snake venom to address the shortage. The procurement process is underway, and the hospital hopes to receive the medication before the peak snakebite season in October. Dr. Hamman expressed concern over the rising number of cases and noted that the shortage of anti-venom is discouraging patients from seeking treatment.

The Kaltungo hospital, a national reference center for snakebite treatment and research, is facing a severe shortage of anti-venom, which is exacerbating the crisis. Hospital officials are appealing to patients to seek medical attention instead of relying on traditional methods, which can be risky. The shortage of anti-venom and the high cost of treatment are significant concerns, and patients are urging the government to take urgent action to address the issue.