Senate Pushes for Better Hospital Preparedness to Prevent Snakebite Deaths

Nigeria’s Senate has taken action following growing concerns about gaps in emergency healthcare, particularly regarding snakebite treatment. Lawmakers urged federal and state authorities to ensure that both public and private hospitals consistently stock vital antidotes, including snake anti‑venoms, and other emergency medicines to prevent avoidable deaths.

The call came during a Senate session where members highlighted a troubling pattern of fatalities linked to delayed or unavailable treatment for snakebites, poisoning, and similar emergencies. The motion emphasized the urgent need for coordinated health system improvements so that critical medicines are accessible when patients arrive at hospitals.

Senators recommended developing national guidelines that set minimum stock levels of essential antidotes and making adherence to those standards a requirement for hospital licensing and accreditation. They also urged health regulators to oversee the quality, storage, and supply of safe, affordable antivenoms nationwide.

Beyond medicines, the Senate stressed the necessity of better emergency response systems and public education on the risks of delayed medical care. Officials were encouraged to conduct audits of hospital preparedness and promote safety measures that reduce encounters with venomous animals.

This move follows widespread attention on recent incidents that exposed weaknesses in emergency medical readiness and reinforced calls for stronger healthcare infrastructure across Nigeria.