In the last two weeks, Snakes have bitten more than 50 people in Kanke and Kanam communities in Plateau State.
Rep. Timothy Golu, representative of the area at the National Assembly told News Agency of Nigeria after visiting the victims.
Golu revealed that while some had died, others in critical conditions were on admission in various hospitals and traditional snake treating homes.
He said “Some have even been treated and discharged, but a woman at my place, who has been treated and discharged, still has pus gushing from the bitten spot and we have advised her to return to the hospital for fresh checks.
“We fear that something worse may result from the wound if not properly treated because she is already limping.
“As the flood pushed them from the over flown tributaries of Rivers Benue and Niger, some snakes climbed trees, others entered holes, while some just held unto any available straw.
“All of them later descended into residences and farms where they have been wrecking havoc.
Golu said the commonest species were the black mamba, carpet viper and cobra, and declared that most victims usually depend on luck to survive.”
He urged the federal government to treat the snake invasion as a national medical emergency concern.
He said “Government must come in with full force and ensure that the anti-snake venom is provided to the people free of charge because it is too expensive for the rural poor.
“Other world health bodies like WHO and UNICEF should also step in because it is a serious situation that requires all hands on deck.”
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