By Chantelle T Muzanenhamo
The Ministry of Health and Child Care has released its Disease Surveillance Report for the week ending October 13, 2024, indicating that a total of 34 snakebite cases were reported, with no deaths recorded during this period. The cumulative statistics for the year now show 3,087 snakebite cases and 15 fatalities, underscoring an ongoing public health concern.
The report, published on their official Facebook account, emphasizes that bites or envenoming from venomous snakes can lead to a range of acute and serious medical emergencies. The symptoms associated with snake envenoming can vary significantly depending on the species involved, creating challenges for healthcare professionals in preparing the correct antivenoms.
The Ministry notes that “envenoming can cause severe paralysis, which may impede breathing and necessitate immediate medical attention.”
Furthermore, individuals may experience bleeding disorders that can result in fatal hemorrhages or irreversible kidney failure.
The report also highlights the risk of severe local tissue destruction, which can lead to permanent disability or even limb amputation.Particularly alarming is the fact that children are at a higher risk of severe effects due to their lower body mass compared to adults.To combat the harmful effects of snakebites, the Ministry highlights that snake antivenoms are effective treatments that can prevent or reverse many complications associated with envenoming.
However, the report stresses that the availability and accessibility of these antivenoms, along with raising awareness of primary prevention methods among communities and health workers, are essential strategies for limiting serious consequences and fatalities from snakebites.In light of the rising cases, the Ministry provides critical guidance for individuals who may be bitten by a suspected venomous snake.
“Individuals should immediately move away from the area where the bite occurred and remove any tight clothing or accessories around the bitten part of the body to accommodate potential swelling,” the report states.
“It is crucial to reassure the victim, as most venomous snake bites do not result in immediate death,” the report adds.
The report recommends that the person be immobilized and transported to a healthcare facility as soon as possible.
Additionally, applying pressure at the bite site with a pressure pad may be suitable in certain cases, while traditional first aid methods or herbal remedies should be avoided. For local pain, paracetamol may be administered, and the victim should be placed on their left side in the recovery position to prevent choking in case of vomiting. Continuous monitoring of the victim’s airway and breathing is imperative, with readiness to perform resuscitation if necessary.
The Ministry of Health and Child Care remains dedicated to reducing the incidence and impact of snakebites through public education and enhanced healthcare responses.
The ongoing engagement of the community and vigilance are vital in preventing snakebite emergencies and ensuring timely medical care when incidents occur.
For further information on snakebite prevention and treatment, the public is encouraged to visit the Ministry’s website or contact their local health department.
Ministry of Health and Child Care Website: https:www.mohcc.gov.zw