The Plateau State Government has ordered the procurement of anti-snake venom to curb rising rate of people killed by snake bites in the state.

Habila Gwatau, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, told the News Agency of Nigeria in Pankshinon Tuesdaythat an avearge of 600 people were bitten by snakes monthly in the state.

Gwatau said the gesture was necessary to save the victims, adding that the medication would be offered free.

NAN reports that dangerous snakes like the Black Mamba, Carpet Viper and Puss Adder have continued to attack people living in the south and central parts of the state.

According to Gwatau, an average of between 15 and 25 snake bites are reported everyday, with “about 600 persons in a month”.

He added: “I can’t tell you the exact amount government is spending, but millions of naira have been voted for a massive quantity of the anti-venom for the treatment of victims of those dangerous snakes.

“We must rise to the challenge to save the lives of our citizens from those dangerous snakes.”

Gwatau said three Hospitals – General Hosptial, Dengi; General Hospital, Shendam; and JUTH Comprehensive Health Centre, Zamko – have been designated for the distribution of the drugs.

He said Governor Simon Lalong was “very worried” by the spate of snake attacks and had directed the health ministry to arrest the situation.

The permanent secretary disclosed that the ministry would carry out an assessment of the three designated hospitals next week to ascertain their capacity before the supply of the anti-venom.

According to Gwatau, the ministry has carried out sensitisation campaigns to enlighten people in the affected areas to be more careful and use protective materials while entering bushes around them.

He called on the residents to always clear the bushes around their homes and ensure constant use of boots and industrial hand gloves when going to farm.

“We believe that if the people take some of these tips and measures seriously, the menace will be reduced,Gwatau said.

NAN.