By Israel Adamu, Jos
The Plateau State Government has assured residents that Echitab Polyvalent Anti-Snake Venom (ASV) is readily available and provided free of charge to snakebite victims at designated health facilities across the state.
The assurance was given in a statement on Sunday by Pharm. Kim Jerry Bot, Director-General of the Plateau State Drugs and Medical Commodities Management Agency (PS-DMCMA). He said snakebite cases are treated as medical emergencies, with measures in place to prevent deaths linked to cost, delays, or lack of access.
According to the statement, adequate stocks of Echitab ASV have been supplied to strategic hospitals, general hospitals, and approved treatment centres across Plateau State. Distribution is ongoing to all 17 local government areas, ensuring coverage for both rural and urban communities.
Health workers, the agency said, have been directed to administer the anti-venom immediately once a snakebite is diagnosed. The government also warned that any facility or individual found withholding, diverting, or charging patients for the drug would face sanctions.The statement noted that hospitals yet to receive supplies should collect them from the PS-DMCMA Pharmagrade Warehouse, with appropriate cold-chain equipment for storage.
The distribution plan was approved by the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Nicholas Baamlong, and shared with relevant stakeholders, the agency added.
