The Plateau government has affirmed the availability of free Echitab polyvalent anti-snake venom in designated health facilities across the state.

Kim Bot, executive secretary of the Plateau State Drugs and Medical Commodities Management Agency, made the disclosure in a statement on Monday in Jos.

According to Mr Bot, snakebite is a medical emergency, and as such, no life should 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 established, and the ASV was stocked in strategic hospitals, general hospitals, and treatment centres.

Mr 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 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.

Mr Bot commended Governor Mutfwang for his humane intervention in procuring the Echitab ASV and making it available at no cost.

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)