In recent months, Warrap State Ministry of Health and Environment has seen a spike in snake bites, with three fatalities and 27 recorded cases in August and September. The director of the Gogrial East County Health Department, Abraham Akot, expressed concern over the shortage of antivenoms and antimalarial drugs, exacerbated by inaccessibility to facilities.
Despite receiving some antivenoms from WHO and MSF, Akot highlighted the struggles faced by patients who have to purchase drugs from private pharmacies due to the lack of essential supplies. Additionally, four health facilities missed out on drug supplies from the HSTP, further limiting access to medical care.
John Akol Akol, the Warrap State director for surveillance, emphasized the impact of floods on snake behavior, leading to an increased number of patients being admitted to hospitals. With the risk of death within minutes, urgent action is needed to address the lack of resources and support for those affected by snake bites.