In Eswatini, the use of antivenom has dramatically improved outcomes for snakebite victims, as illustrated by Clement Tsabedze’s near-fatal experience with a black mamba. The Eswatini Antivenom Foundation, led by Thea Litschka-Koen, aims to educate communities about the importance of seeking medical treatment. The introduction of EchiTAb-Plus-ICP antivenom has coincided with a season of zero fatalities from snakebites, highlighting the need for ongoing collaboration with traditional healers to enhance treatment efficacy.
In Siphocosini, Eswatini, Clement Tsabedze recounts his life-changing encounter with a black mamba, a potent and feared snake. His survival hinged on prompt access to antivenom, leading him to appreciate modern medicine over traditional remedies. “Modern medicine saved my life, I was lucky,” he stated, advocating for community awareness on the benefits of seeking medical aid rather than relying solely on traditional methods.
Eswatini, previously known as Swaziland, faces between 200 to 400 severe snakebite cases annually, as reported by the World Health Organization. The region’s subtropical climate nurtures various dangerous snake species, such as the puff adder and black mamba. For generations, the Swazi populace has employed traditional remedies, including charms and herbal concoctions, to counter snakebites, although these practices frequently delay effective treatment.
Thea Litschka-Koen, founder of the Eswatini Antivenom Foundation, actively promotes the use of antivenom, particularly in remote areas. She emphasizes the need to educate communities on the importance of seeking medical assistance without hesitation. Litschka-Koen and her team face challenges in establishing trust and fostering collaboration with local traditional healers.
The 2023-2024 snakebite season marked a significant achievement for Eswatini, as no fatalities occurred due to snakebites. This milestone coincided with the rollout of EchiTAb-Plus-ICP, a new polyvalent antivenom capable of neutralizing multiple snake species. Philip Price, scientific director of EchiTAb-Plus-ICP, indicated that the initiative commenced in 2017 during a shortage and highlighted the successful collaboration with Costa Rica’s Clodomiro Picado Research Institute.
Despite advancements, convincing traditional healers to direct snakebite victims to medical facilities remains a challenge. Makhanya Makhanya, a traditional healer, stresses the importance of mutual cooperation between traditional and modern medicine while also noting the discrimination and skepticism traditional healers encounter from governmental and scientific circles. This situation complicates the establishment of collaborative efforts for snakebite treatment in Eswatini.
The experience of Clement Tsabedze underscores the essential role of modern medicine in addressing snakebite emergencies in Eswatini. With efforts led by Thea Litschka-Koen and the Eswatini Antivenom Foundation, there is hope for raising awareness and changing perceptions regarding snakebite treatments. The introduction of the EchiTAb-Plus-ICP antivenom is a significant step forward, with no lives lost during the recent snakebite season. Continued collaboration between traditional healers and modern medical practices is crucial for the successful treatment of snakebites and enhancing community health.
Original Source: www.scidev.net
