The Medical Director of the Snakebite Treatment and Research Hospital in Kaltungo, Gombe State, Dr Nicholas Amani-Hamman, has warned Nigerians against harmful first-aid practices commonly used after snakebites, stressing that they can worsen injuries and reduce a victim’s chances of survival.
Newsonspot reports that in an interview with PUNCH Healthwise, the physician advised snakebite victims not to tie the affected limb with cloth in an attempt to stop venom from spreading, describing the practice as outdated and dangerous. He also cautioned against using razor blades or sharp objects to cut the bite area in an effort to extract venom, noting that such actions can cause more harm and increase complications.
Dr Amani-Hamman’s warning followed reports of the death of an Abuja-based aspiring Nigerian singer, Ifunanya Nwangene, who reportedly died after being bitten by a snake on Saturday.
According to the medical director, immediate and proper first aid response is critical in snakebite emergencies. He explained that victims should stop using the affected limb, remain calm, and be taken to a hospital where anti-snake venom (antivenom) is available.
“Tying the place is an old idea so that the venom will not spread. It is not advisable because it concentrates the venom at the bite site and can also block blood supply to the limb,” he said, adding that restricting blood flow could create additional dangers.
He further warned victims to avoid actions that can increase heart rate, explaining that physical exertion can speed up venom circulation in the body.
“Patients are advised not to cross a river… when your heart rate increases, the venom will spread very fast. The person should be carried and brought to the hospital,” he stated.
Dr Amani-Hamman also discouraged self-diagnosis, urging anyone who suspects a bite to seek medical attention immediately, noting that the Kaltungo facility is equipped to confirm whether an injury is truly a snakebite, even without bringing the snake.
He dismissed concerns about intravenous fluids, stating that drips do not worsen snakebite conditions and do not have adverse effects.
Beyond first aid advice, the doctor called for stronger support for snakebite management in Nigeria, urging international agencies, NGOs, and philanthropists to invest in subsidising and supplying antivenom to reduce preventable deaths.
He revealed that the Kaltungo hospital treats about 2,500 snakebite cases annually and maintains a very low mortality rate, except when patients arrive late or when antivenom is unavailable.
However, he identified affordability as a major challenge, disclosing that antivenom now costs about N250,000 per vial, a price many patients cannot pay. He also noted that reduced hospital-reported snakebite cases may not mean fewer bites, but rather that more victims are turning to traditional treatments due to lack of access to antivenom.
