Snakebite First Aid Myths Debunked: Expert Warns Against Dangerous Practices
In a crucial public health advisory, medical experts have issued stern warnings against outdated and potentially lethal snakebite first aid methods that continue to circulate in Nigerian communities. The timely intervention comes as snakebite incidents remain a significant health concern across various regions of the country.
Dangerous First Aid Practices That Reduce Survival Chances
Dr. Nicholas Amani-Hamman, the Medical Director of the Snakebite Treatment and Research Hospital in Kaltungo, Gombe State, has identified several common practices that could dramatically reduce a victim's chances of survival. The expert specifically highlighted the dangerous tradition of tying the affected limb with pieces of cloth following a snakebite incident.
"Tying a piece of cloth will localize venom in the affected part. It may block the blood supply in that particular region. Venom travels very fast; the venom is already moving around," Dr. Amani-Hamman explained during a recent interview.
The medical director emphasized that this outdated practice not only fails to prevent venom spread but could actually worsen the victim's condition by restricting blood flow to the affected area.
Additional Harmful Practices to Avoid
Beyond the dangerous practice of limb tying, Dr. Amani-Hamman identified several other harmful responses that snakebite victims should avoid:
- Using razor blades or sharp objects to extract supposed poison from the bite wound
- Self-diagnosis after a snakebite incident
- Delaying medical treatment while attempting ineffective home remedies
"We advise that when someone is bitten and is unsure what it is, the person should come to the hospital so that we can confirm it," the expert stressed, highlighting the critical importance of professional medical assessment.
Proper Response Protocol for Snakebite Victims
According to the medical expert, the correct immediate response to snakebite incidents involves several crucial steps:
- Seek immediate medical attention without delay
- Keep the affected limb immobilized and avoid using it
- Avoid activities that increase heart rate, including crossing rivers or engaging in strenuous movement
- Refrain from applying traditional remedies that could complicate treatment
Dr. Amani-Hamman provided specific guidance about physical activity: "Patients are advised not to cross a river. The reason is that when you cross a river, naturally, your heart rate increases, no matter how small the river is, and the venom will spread very fast."
Medical Treatment and Antivenom Availability
Addressing concerns about hospital treatment, the expert clarified that intravenous fluids do not worsen snakebite conditions. "Drip can't worsen the condition; it doesn't have adverse effects," he stated, reassuring the public about standard medical protocols.
The Federal Capital Territory Authority has confirmed that antivenom supplies remain fully stocked and accessible in government-owned hospitals and health centers. Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, Mandate Secretary of the FCT Health Services and Environment Secretariat, emphasized that while early administration of antivenom is vital, it does not guarantee full recovery, highlighting the complexity of snakebite treatment.
Recent Tragic Incident Highlights Urgency
The expert's warnings come in response to the tragic death of singer Ifunanya Nwangene in Abuja, which has brought renewed attention to snakebite management in Nigeria. Medical facilities have confirmed their readiness to handle such emergencies, with the Federal Medical Centre Abuja denying claims of antivenom shortages during recent treatment efforts.
This comprehensive guidance from medical authorities aims to correct dangerous misconceptions and improve survival rates for snakebite victims across Nigeria. Public health officials continue to emphasize that immediate professional medical intervention remains the most critical factor in determining outcomes for those affected by venomous snakebites.
