INTERNATIONAL SNAKEBITE AWARENESS DAY

Background

Snakebite is a neglected public health issue in many tropical and subtropical countries, particularly in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. In Africa, an estimated 435,000 to 580,000 snakebites annually require treatment. In Kenya alone, about 4,000 victims die each year, while 7,000 others suffer serious health complications. Snakebite envenoming primarily affects women, children, and farmers in poor, rural communities, especially in areas with weak health systems and limited medical resources.

Snakebites can lead to acute medical emergencies, including severe paralysis, bleeding disorders, irreversible kidney failure, and local tissue destruction that may cause permanent disability or death if not promptly treated. Children are particularly vulnerable due to their smaller body mass. Recognizing the severity of this issue, the World Health Organization added snakebite envenoming to its list of Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) in 2017 and set a global target in 2019 to reduce snakebite cases by 50% by 2030.

In alignment with the WHO’s target, the Ministry of Health (MOH) Kenya has taken several initiatives to raise awareness about snakebites and improve management strategies. Efforts include investing in research to develop a Kenya-specific antivenom through the Kenya Institute of Primate Research (KIPRE), under the Kenya Snakebite Research and Intervention Centre (KSRIC). The government has allocated over 1 billion Kenya Shillings to support this development. Additionally, community engagement has been prioritized, with programs focused on teaching communities how to coexist with snakes, prevent snakebites, and improve interventions for snakebite victims. One key avenue for raising awareness is the annual International Snakebite Awareness Day (ISBAD).

International Snakebite Awareness Day

Established in 2018, ISBAD aims to draw global attention to snakebite envenoming, a significant health issue affecting millions in tropical regions. Kenya will join the world in commemorating the 6th ISBAD by partnering with Tharaka Nithi County to educate communities on snakebite prevention and response.

Key activities planned for this year include:

• • • Social media campaigns featuring infographics, videos, and survivor stories.
    • Distribution of educational materials to community centers and healthcare facilities.
    • Public announcements on radio and television.
    • Collaboration with local leaders and organizations to spread awareness.
    • Distribution of informational brochures.
    • Sharing stories and testimonies from snakebite survivors and healthcare workers.
    • Recognizing individuals and organizations contributing significantly to snakebite management.
    • Keynote speeches by representatives from the MOH, KIPRE, the county, and partner organizations.

STAKEHOLDERS

MOH (VBNTDU), KIPRE (KSRIC), Tharaka Nithi County.

Social Media handle

Local media stations and social media platforms (twitter, you tube, TikTok, Instagram, WhatsApp)