Medical experts caution that tying limbs after snakebite is dangerous, urging victims to seek urgent hospital care for higher survival chances
The Medical Director of the Snakebite Treatment and Research Hospital, Kaltungo, Gombe State, Dr Nicholas Amani-Hamman, has warned that tying snakebite victims’ limbs with cloth or attempting to extract venom with sharp objects significantly reduces chances of survival.
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Dr Amani-Hamman issued the warning in reaction to the death of 26-year-old Nigerian singer Ifunanya Nwangene, who reportedly died after a snakebite in Abuja on Saturday. Nwangene gained national recognition for her performances on *The Voice Nigeria* in 2021 and for blending jazz, opera, classical, and soul music.
“First aid is very important. The person should avoid using the affected limb and must not tie it. Tying concentrates the venom and can block blood supply, leading to further danger,” Dr Amani-Hamman explained. He added that crossing rivers or engaging in physical activity can accelerate venom circulation, further endangering victims.
He urged patients to seek immediate hospital care, noting that the Kaltungo facility is equipped to identify snakebite types and administer anti-snake venom. “Even if someone does not know the type of snake, they should come to the hospital immediately,” he said, recalling a patient from Abuja who survived after prompt treatment at the centre.
Dr Amani-Hamman also called on international organisations, NGOs, and philanthropists to invest in anti-snake venom supplies to subsidise costs, emphasising that treatment remains expensive at around ₦250,000 per vial.
Supporting his advice, Dr Abe Musa of the Toxinological Society of Nigeria criticised the practice of tying snakebite wounds. “Venom cannot be stopped by a piece of cloth. Hospital treatment with the correct number of vials is essential for survival,” he said.
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The Toxinological Society previously reported that Nigeria records approximately 43,000 snakebite cases annually, with around 1,900 deaths, highlighting a need for broader public awareness and government support for snakebite management.
