Benue State Emergency Management Agency Reports Surge in Snakebite Incidents

The Benue State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) has formally raised concerns regarding a notable increase in snakebite incidents across the state. According to the agency, the surge in attacks is disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations, specifically farmers and individuals residing in Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps.

Recent Incidents and Medical Response

The agency’s alert follows two specific cases reported from the Daudu 1 IDP camp located in the Guma Local Government Area. The victims, identified as 35-year-old Isaac Shula and 19-year-old Mbapuun Tyoshio, were reportedly attacked while working on their farms. Both individuals were transferred to the Benue State University Teaching Hospital (BSUTH) in Makurdi to receive specialized medical care under the oversight of SEMA.

Dr. Amos Dzungwe, the Health Focal Person for SEMA, confirmed that these cases are part of a broader trend. The agency has received an increasing volume of requests for medical assistance from various locations throughout the state, suggesting that the frequency of these encounters is rising.

Recovery and Treatment Protocols

While the situation remains concerning, there have been some positive outcomes. Dr. Dzungwe noted that two other victims who sustained snakebite injuries were successfully treated and discharged from medical care within the last two weeks. Other individuals remain under observation and are currently receiving treatment.

Health officials are emphasizing the critical importance of time in these scenarios. Dr. Dzungwe cautioned residents against delaying medical intervention, noting that immediate professional evaluation is essential to prevent severe complications. The official advice is for any person bitten by a snake to bypass traditional or self-administered remedies and report directly to a recognized health facility for appropriate clinical management.

Addressing Misinformation

In addition to the health warnings, SEMA has addressed the circulation of information regarding these incidents. The agency issued a call for the public to disregard what it characterized as false reports and politically motivated narratives surrounding snakebite cases, particularly those involving IDPs. SEMA emphasized that public health emergencies should be managed with responsibility and transparency, rather than being utilized as instruments for political discourse.

Conclusion

As the frequency of snakebite incidents continues to challenge local communities in Benue State, SEMA remains the primary point of coordination for medical assistance. Residents are urged to maintain vigilance while working in agricultural areas and to prioritize immediate hospital admission should an encounter occur. While the agency continues to monitor the situation, it has not provided specific statistical data regarding the total number of annual cases or the exact environmental factors contributing to the recent rise in incidents.

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p class=”vbna-source-note”>Source: Daily Post Nigeria

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