• Abuja-based artiste Ifunanya’s death sparks renewed focus on snake-bite emergencies in Nigeria
• TheRadar has compiled a list of dos and don’ts to follow after a snake bite
• Here are practical tips to prevent snake bites at home and in communities

Snake bites remain a silent but deadly public-health threat in many parts of Nigeria, especially in residential estates close to bushes, farmlands, riverine areas, and developing communities. 

The heartbreaking death of Abuja-based artiste Ifunanya, who reportedly suffered a snake bite in her home and later died despite seeking medical help, has renewed urgent conversations about what to do, and what not to do, after a snake bite.

Her story, shared widely online, reflects painful realities many Nigerians face in terms of delayed access to antivenom, transport difficulties, limited drug supplies, and reliance on emergency improvisation. It also highlights why every minute matters when venom enters the body.

This article explains some medical dos and don’ts after a snake bite as highlighted by Arojinle, a snake expert in X (formerly Twitter), while drawing lessons Nigerians can learn to prevent future tragedies.

Why snake bites are dangerous

Nigeria is home to several venomous snakes, including carpet vipers, cobras, puff adders, and mambas. 

During the rainy season or in estates near undeveloped land, snakes may enter homes in search of shelter.

Venom can affect the breathing muscles, blood clotting, nerves, and organs such as the kidneys, which is why snake bites are medical emergencies, whether symptoms appear immediately or not.

In Ifunanya’s case, reports suggest she tried to reach multiple hospitals after being bitten and later developed breathing difficulties, a known danger sign that requires urgent antivenom and respiratory support.

What to do after snake bite

1. Stay calm and limit movement: Fear and running can speed venom circulation. The victim should lie down and breathe slowly.

2. Move to safety: Get away from the snake to prevent another bite. Do not attempt to catch or kill it.

3. Immobilise the bitten limb: Use a cloth, stick, or splint to gently keep the arm or leg still. Keep it at heart level or slightly lower.

4. Remove tight items: Take off rings, watches, bangles, anklets, or tight clothing before swelling begins.

5. Lightly rinse the area: Wash gently with clean water if available. Do not scrub or apply chemicals.

6. Go to a hospital immediately: Head straight to the nearest facility that can administer antivenom or refer quickly to a tertiary centre.

If possible, call the hospital ahead to confirm availability, use community emergency transport, and alert family members on your way to the hospital.

In Ifunanya’s case, multiple stops and transport delays reportedly occurred, a reminder that knowing the closest hospital with antivenom ahead of time can save crucial minutes.

7. Monitor symptoms: Note the time of the bite and watch for difficulty in breathing, weakness, bleeding, blurred vision, or vomiting and ensure to share this information with doctors.

Things to stop doing after snake bites

Many well-meaning actions can actually worsen outcomes.

• Do not cut the wound: Cutting causes bleeding and infection and does not remove venom.
• Do not suck out venom: This is ineffective and risky.
• Do not tie a tight tourniquet: Binding the limb too tightly can cause tissue damage and may worsen complications. (Loose immobilisation is different from tight constriction.)
• Do not apply herbs, chemicals, or heat: Substances such as black stone, engine oil, pepper, kerosene, battery acid, or burning the wound can destroy tissue and delay real treatment.
• Do not give alcohol or stimulants: Palm wine, coffee, or energy drinks can speed venom spread.
• Do not delay hospital care for traditional remedies: Snake bite survival depends on prompt medical treatment, not home solutions.

How to reduce snake-bite risk at home

Around houses:

• Clear bushes and refuse near buildings
• Seal holes in walls and ceilings
• Use mosquito nets properly tucked in
• Keep rooms tidy
• Reduce rodents that attract snakes

On farms and bush paths:

• Wear boots and thick trousers
• Use torches at night
• Avoid reaching into holes or wood piles
• Walk carefully in tall grass

Community preparedness

• Know hospitals that stock antivenom
• Create emergency transport plans
• Share first-aid knowledge in churches, schools, and estates
• Advocate for stocked primary health centres

Snake bites are preventable, and deaths from them should not be common. 

The tragic loss of Ifunanya in Abuja reminds Nigerians that speed, correct first aid, and access to proper medical treatment save lives.

Every household, estate, group, and farming community should know these snake-bite dos and don’ts. Sharing accurate information today could protect someone tomorrow.

Surviving hot season in Nigeria: Essential tips for staying safe, healthy

Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier shared some surviving tips to stay safe and healthy during the hot weather. 

Nigeria experiences extreme heat during the dry season, with temperatures often surpassing 40°C in some regions. The intense heat increases the risk of dehydration and heat exhaustion, which can be life-threatening if not managed.