The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared snake bites as global health issue requiring significant attention after passing a resolution on the issue.
Snakebite is considered a hidden health crisis and has always been low on the public health agenda at national and international levels.
It is estimated that some 2.7 million people per year suffer from snake bites and more than 100,000 people die from snake bites.
Some 300,000 people are also estimated to have undergone amputations and other permanent disabilities caused by snakebites each year.
In sub-Saharan Africa, more than 20,000 people die from snakebites each year and WHO has said that complications from snake bites remain one of the most neglected tropical diseases.
The latest resolution is to ensure that countries follow a common strategy in dealing with snake attacks with the provision of cheaper antidotes and training.
Source: Africafeeds.com
