Global Snakebite Crisis: WHO Warns of Rising Deaths and Antivenom Shortages
The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a stark warning regarding the global snakebite crisis, revealing that tens of thousands of people die from snakebites each year due to a significant shortage of antivenoms. According to WHO snake expert David Williams, climate change is exacerbating the situation, with increased heavy rains and flooding heightening the risk of snake encounters in various regions.
The WHO estimates that between 1.8 and 2.7 million people are bitten by venomous snakes annually, leading to between 81,000 and 138,000 deaths each year, which translates to a death occurring every 4 to 6 minutes. These figures, however, are believed to be underreported. Williams highlighted that around 240,000 individuals suffer from disabilities resulting from snakebites each year, with children constituting more than a third of these cases.
In regions like sub-Saharan Africa, the antivenom supply is critically low, with only 2.5% of annual needs being met. Since the 1980s, many laboratories have ceased production of these vital treatments, contributing to the dire shortages faced by countries such as Nigeria, India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan.
Climate Change and Its Impact on Snakebite Incidents
The WHO warns that climate change is likely to alter the distribution of venomous snakes, potentially introducing them to new environments where they may encounter humans for the first time. This is particularly concerning as heavy rains and floods become more frequent, forcing snakes into closer proximity with human populations. Williams pointed to Nigeria and Pakistan as recent examples where flooding has led to a surge in snakebite incidents and subsequent antivenom shortages.
In response to this growing crisis, the WHO developed a strategy in 2019 aimed at reducing snakebite-related deaths and disabilities by 50% by 2030. This plan emphasizes the need for increased production of antivenoms and better preparedness in regions likely to be affected by climate-induced changes. Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic has delayed the implementation of these initiatives, and many countries have had to shift their focus elsewhere. The WHO plans to release updated statistics on snakebites by the end of the year, but calls for urgent action remain critical as the threat of snakebites continues to rise.
