ABUJA, 11 November 2026 — The Federal Medical Centre, Abuja, has treated 11 snakebite cases so far this year, its medical director, Prof. Saad Ahmed, said in an earlier interview. He urged residents to seek medical care immediately after a bite.
The figure covers cases treated at FMC Abuja in 2026. Ahmed told the News Agency of Nigeria that delays can complicate treatment. Depending on the snake species, venom can cause breathing problems, bleeding or organ damage.
Ahmed said the hospital had polyvalent antivenom in stock at the time of the interview. This type of antivenom is used to treat bites from several snake species.
What to do after a snakebite
The World Health Organization advises getting the person to a health facility immediately. Move away from the snake and keep the person and the bitten limb as still as possible during transport. Remove rings, bracelets or other tight items from the affected limb in case it swells.
Avoid tight tourniquets, cutting the wound, trying to suck out venom or applying herbal remedies. Health workers can assess whether the person needs antivenom and other emergency treatment.