Halve snakebite injuries - WHO

Friday May 24th, 2019

A plan to halve the number of those suffering serious effects from snakebites has been unveiled.

The World Health Organisation says its target can be achieved in 12 years through ensuring access to safe and effective treatment.

About two million people a year suffer from bites and the number of deaths is thought to be as high as 138,000.

Another 400,000 people suffer permanent disability from bites. WHO says that snakebite envenoming is a neglected tropical disease.

WHO says it will be backing research on new treatments and diagnostic devices.

The Wellcome Trust, which launched its own research programme last week, gave its backing to the plans.

Its director of science Professor Mike Turner said: “It is a relief to see the world finally waking up to this hidden health crisis. This new strategy from the WHO is ambitious and yet achievable. It is exactly what the world needs to tackle this challenging issue.

"If we are to make this a reality – and save the lives of snakebite victims around the world - we now need strong commitments and action from governments, funders, manufacturers and NGOs.

“There is a real opportunity to stop snakebites killing so many people in the near future. With access to the right antivenom there is a high chance of survival. There are new potential drugs that can and should be tested. While people will always be bitten by venomous snakes, there is no reason so many should die.”

Tags: General Health | UK News | World Health

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