Plateau Records 311 Snakebite Recoveries Under Free Anti-Venom Scheme

Plateau State Government has recorded major success under its Free Anti-Snake Venom (ASV) initiative, with 311 out of 312 reported snakebite cases successfully treated between December 2025 and June 2026.

The Director-General of the Plateau State Drugs and Medical Commodities Management Agency (PS-DMCMA), Pharm. Kim Jerry Bot disclosed this in an interview with our correspondent, attributing the outcome to Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s intervention in providing free access to life-saving treatment across the state.

According to him, the achievement followed the procurement and distribution of Echitab® Anti-Snake Venom to healthcare facilities in 15 Local Government Areas, significantly improving access to treatment and eliminating financial barriers for affected residents.

He said the initiative has increased public confidence in seeking prompt medical attention, reduced preventable deaths from snakebite incidents, and strengthened emergency healthcare response across Plateau State.

Bot noted that with the commencement of the farming season,  a period often linked to a rise in snakebite cases,  Governor Mutfwang had approved the procurement of additional anti-snake venom to sustain the intervention.

He explained that the additional stock would ensure healthcare facilities remain adequately supplied and prepared to respond effectively to emergencies while guaranteeing uninterrupted access to treatment.

The DG said the continued implementation of the free Anti-Snake Venom initiative reflects the administration’s commitment to strengthening emergency healthcare delivery, reducing preventable deaths and improving the well-being of residents.

He added that the intervention further demonstrates the government’s resolve to provide timely, accessible and quality healthcare services across the state.