By Ncaba Ntshakala
With the first rains falling and temperatures rising, the Eswatini Antivenom Foundation, has issued a timely reminder of the start of the new snakebite season in Eswatini.
The onset of warmer weather brings increased activity among snakes, leading to a higher likelihood of human-snake interactions and, regrettably, snakebites.
The organization when reflecting on the past season, which spanned 2023 to 2024, the Foundation reported receiving over 600 calls for assistance from the general public, rural clinics, health centres, and hospitals across the country.
Despite the challenges posed by the snakebite season, the Foundation successfully ensured that no lives were lost and only one partial amputation was required.
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The season was said to be marked by several critical incidents, including numerous neurotoxic bites that necessitated the use of ventilators for the victims and severe cytotoxic bites that required extended hospital stays for wound care.
One of the most severe cases involved a Boomslang bite, which was successfully treated with a monovalent antivenom.
The Foundation credited these successes to the collaboration, teamwork, and unwavering determination of all involved.
The Foundation asserted that a key partner in these efforts was The Luke Commission, whose dedication and commitment were described as unmatched.
It further extended heartfelt thanks to the clinicians in both government and private facilities, where it said they fought tirelessly to save lives and limbs and often working with insufficient antivenom supplies.
The Foundation also expressed deep gratitude to the Snake Rescue Volunteers, who risked their lives to step between humans and snakes, preventing further harm.
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Moreover, the Foundation’s accomplishments were said to have made possible by the support of its sponsors, trustees, and core team.
Through their efforts, several projects were successfully completed, and new research initiatives were launched, promising even greater success in the future.
It also added that its ultimate goal remains to reduce the suffering and incidence of snakebites in Eswatini. The Eswatini Antivenom Foundation is led by Thea Litschka-Koen who is also the founder.
