In Eswatini, the use of antivenom has proven life-saving in snakebite cases. Education on seeking medical treatment, as demonstrated by Clement Tsabedze’s story, is crucial. The Eswatini Antivenom Foundation promotes antivenom across rural areas while facing challenges in collaboration with traditional healers. The recent introduction of EchiTAb-Plus-ICP antivenom has marked a milestone with no fatalities reported in the latest snakebite season.
In Eswatini, particularly in Siphocosini village, the story of Clement Tsabedze emphasizes the life-saving role of antivenom following his black mamba bite. Access to antivenom and timely medical intervention significantly improved his survival chances, altering his previous belief about traditional medicine being the sole remedy for snakebites. His case illustrates the urgent need for community education on seeking professional medical help in such emergencies.
The World Health Organization (WHO) reports around 200 to 400 severe snakebite cases in Eswatini annually, classifying snakebite poisoning as a neglected tropical disease. The subtropical climate fosters many venomous snakes like the puff adder, black mamba, and Mozambique spitting cobra. While traditional remedies have been culturally significant for centuries, they often inadequately address the threat from potent snake venoms and can delay effective treatment.
The Eswatini Antivenom Foundation, led by Thea Litschka-Koen, is dedicated to promoting antivenom use throughout the nation. Their efforts involve educating rural communities to seek medical help swiftly after snakebites rather than relying on traditional remedies. Building trust with these communities, as well as collaborating with traditional healers, remains a significant challenge in this educational endeavor.
During the 2023-2024 snakebite season, no fatalities were reported, coinciding with the deployment of the new EchiTAb-Plus-ICP antivenom. This polyvalent antivenom effectively targets various snake species, showcasing an improved safety profile and affordability over prior treatments. Philip Price from EchiTAb-Plus-ICP noted that the collaboration with Costa Rica’s Clodomiro Picado Research Institute significantly aided in overcoming obstacles related to venom sourcing and antivenom production.
However, convincing traditional healers to refer snakebite victims to medical facilities continues to be a struggle. While acknowledging the efficacy of modern medicine, traditional healers like Makhanya Makhanya encounter skepticism from government and scientific communities, complicating collaboration efforts. Emphasizing mutual learning from both medical practices is vital for advancing community health and safety in snakebite incidents.
In summary, the integration of antivenom and traditional healing practices in Eswatini is crucial for effective snakebite treatment. Education on prompt medical intervention and trust-building within communities are necessary steps toward reducing fatalities. The introduction of EchiTAb-Plus-ICP marks a significant advancement in addressing snakebites, yet collaboration with traditional healers remains essential for comprehensive healthcare. Through ongoing efforts, the Eswatini Antivenom Foundation strives to shift perceptions and save lives.
Original Source: www.scidev.net
