Clement Tsabedze survived a black mamba bite in Eswatini due to accessible antivenom. The Eswatini Antivenom Foundation advocates for swift medical treatment over traditional remedies. The introduction of EchiTAb-Plus-ICP antivenom has resulted in zero fatalities during the recent snakebite season. The cooperation between traditional healers and modern medicine remains essential but challenges persist due to discrimination and skepticism.
In Siphocosini, Eswatini, Clement Tsabedze recounts a life-threatening episode involving a black mamba snake bite, which he survived due to timely access to antivenom. His experience reflects a significant shift in Eswatini, where annual serious snakebite cases range from 200 to 400, classified by the WHO as a neglected tropical disease. “Modern medicine saved my life; I was lucky,” Tsabedze comments, advocating for community awareness of the efficacy of Western medicine against snakebites.
The Eswatini Antivenom Foundation, led by founder Thea Litschka-Koen, has dedicated efforts to change public perceptions of snakebite treatment. The foundation emphasizes the importance of seeking immediate medical assistance instead of relying solely on traditional remedies, which often delay effective treatment. Litschka-Koen underscores their mission to educate remote communities on the dangers of snakebites and the necessity for medical intervention.
The recent 2023-2024 snakebite season marked an unprecedented achievement in Eswatini, with no fatalities recorded, coinciding with the introduction of EchiTAb-Plus-ICP, a new polyvalent antivenom effective against multiple snake species. Philip Price, scientific director of the antivenom company, highlighted the origins and interdisciplinary collaboration involved in producing a reliable and affordable treatment, addressing previous shortages in antivenom supply.
Despite advancements, traditional healers remain a vital part of the healthcare system in Eswatini. Makhanya Makhanya, president of the Witchdoctors Association, expresses the potential for collaboration between traditional and modern medicine to enhance patient outcomes. However, he points out the existing stigma and skepticism towards traditional practitioners, which hinders effective cooperation and access to medical facilities for snakebite victims.
In conclusion, Eswatini faces a significant challenge with snakebites, but recent advancements in antivenom treatment and public education have proven effective. The collaboration between modern medical practices and traditional healers, while necessary, must overcome cultural barriers to improve health outcomes. Awareness campaigns led by the Eswatini Antivenom Foundation are crucial in fostering trust and promoting prompt medical responses, ultimately saving lives in the region.
Original Source: www.scidev.net
