Former House of Representatives member representing Langtang North/Langtang South Federal Constituency, Beni Lar, has called on the Federal Government to upgrade the Jos University Teaching Hospital, JUTH, Comprehensive Health Centre in Zamko, Plateau State, into a specialised Anti-Snake Venom Treatment and Research Institute.
Lar said the proposed institute had become necessary amid increasing snakebite cases and deaths, particularly in rural communities where access to anti-snake venom remains limited.
She made the proposal during a working visit to the facility with the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Health, Mrs Kachollom Daju.
Lar said the high number of snakebite deaths required a more sustainable response from government and health institutions.
She identified the shortage and high cost of anti-snake venom as major obstacles to effective treatment.
Acting President of the Langtang Joint Traditional Council and Ponzhi Zinni, HRH Nimnan Langnim, said more than 100 people had reportedly died from snakebites in the area since the beginning of the year.
He said the situation was particularly alarming in rural communities where victims often experienced delays in accessing treatment.
Lar also highlighted the research potential within the area, noting the contribution of Tarok indigenes to snakebite treatment research.
She cited Dr Nandul Durfa’s involvement in research that led to the development of Echitab, an anti-snake venom treatment used in Nigeria.
Lar also said University of Jos researchers had worked on the development of a snake-venom vaccine.
According to her, a member of the research team, Dogo, presented the first vial produced through the research during the visit.
She said the research product was awaiting human clinical trials.
Lar urged the Federal Government, researchers, medical institutions and relevant agencies to build on existing research efforts by establishing a specialised institution.
She said upgrading the JUTH Comprehensive Health Centre would strengthen treatment capacity, improve access to anti-snake venom and provide a platform for sustained research.
She added that the proposed institute could serve Plateau State, the North-Central region and other areas affected by snakebite
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