Snakes fleeing flooded areas in communities in Kanam and Kanke Local Government areas of Plateau State have bitten no fewer than 50 persons in the last two weeks.
This was confirmed by the member representing Pankshin, Kanke and Kanam Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Timothy Golu, who noted that some of the victims had died, while 13 others were in critical conditions at Jos University Teaching Hospital, JUTH, and 20 in traditional snake treating homes in the state.
He added that some others were visiting the healing centres as outpatients due to lack of bed space.
Golu stressed that the situation was “very scary and pathetic,” adding that the snakes, which moved about openly in pairs, were washed into the communities by flood.
Golu stressed that the situation was “very scary and pathetic,” adding that the snakes, which moved about openly in pairs, were washed into the communities by flood.
Cause
He said: “As flood pushed them from the over flown tributaries of River Benue, some snakes climbed trees, others entered holes, while some just held unto any available straw. They all later descended into residences and farms, wreaking havoc.
He said: “As flood pushed them from the over flown tributaries of River Benue, some snakes climbed trees, others entered holes, while some just held unto any available straw. They all later descended into residences and farms, wreaking havoc.
“The commonest species were the black mamba, carpet viper and cobra. Most victims usually depend on luck to survive.”
He urged the Federal and Plateau State governments to treat the snake invasion as a national issue, urging residents to be vigilant and protect themselves from bites.
Culled from Vanguard
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