(DDM) – Health experts in Nigeria have raised fresh concerns about how the public discusses and understands snakebite treatment.
DDM gathered that the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors issued a detailed statement addressing misinformation after a reported snakebite death in Abuja.
The association reacted to public conversations that followed the reported death of a young singer named Ifunaya.
Doctors described the loss of a young life as deeply painful and extended condolences to her family and supporters.
They said emotional reactions are natural but must not replace accurate medical understanding.
NARD leaders signed the statement to clarify modern standards in snakebite care.
They identified misinformation spreading through television discussions and social media commentary.
The group specifically referenced claims made during a recent breakfast television programme.
They warned that inaccurate medical claims on national platforms can mislead millions of viewers.
They stressed that wrong advice can push people toward harmful first-aid practices.
The association rejected the suggestion that tying a snake-bitten limb helps victims.
They explained that medical science abandoned that method years ago.
They said constricting a limb can worsen tissue damage and increase complications.
They added that constriction does not reliably stop venom from spreading.
They emphasized that current global guidelines strongly discourage that practice.
NARD also addressed confusion about intravenous fluid treatment in emergencies.
They explained that doctors use intravenous fluids to stabilize many critical patients.
They said fluids help manage shock, dehydration, and systemic complications.
They rejected claims that such fluids serve as malaria treatment in snakebite cases.
They stressed that supportive care often determines survival in emergencies.
The doctors highlighted that antivenom remains the main treatment for venomous bites.
They noted that early access to antivenom can save lives.
They pointed to shortages of antivenom in Nigerian hospitals as a serious concern.
They blamed long-term supply and funding gaps for those shortages.
They said procurement and supply chain weaknesses affect many health facilities.
They reminded the public that doctors often work with limited resources.
They said frontline workers still try to deliver the best care possible.
They warned that blaming doctors for systemic problems discourages morale.
They urged Nigerians to seek information from qualified medical professionals.
They encouraged journalists to consult experts before airing medical advice.
They called for responsible reporting that informs rather than provokes anger.
They also urged governments to stock life-saving medicines consistently.
They stressed that snakebite cases occur more in rural and farming communities.
They said those regions need stronger emergency preparedness.
They concluded that preventable deaths should inspire health system reforms.
They called for national focus on solutions instead of sensational debates.
They insisted that better funding and planning can reduce future tragedies.
They encouraged collaboration between media, government, and medical professionals.
They reaffirmed their commitment to public health education and patient safety.
