South Africa is currently experiencing a shortage of polyvalent antivenom, according to the African Snakebite Institute.

Also read: ‘Beware of snake removal con artists’ – African Snakebite Institute

“No stock is available from the manufacturers, the South African Vaccine Producers (SAVP), a subsidiary of the National Health Laboratory Service,” said Johan Marais of the African Snakebite Institute.

“Polyvalent antivenom is used against cobra, mamba, puff adder, Gaboon adder and rinkhals bites. For serious snakebites, antivenom is life-saving and highly effective. It also greatly limits tissue damage in bites from snakes like the puff adder and Mozambique spitting cobra, if administered timeously and in sufficient quantities.

SAVP currently has no stock available for hospitals, doctors and veterinarians who treat many dogs for snakebite. This is the only product available in South Africa, and the polyvalent is also used in many other African countries.”

Marais warned that should you encounter a snake, do not attempt to handle it without the proper equipment or training.

“We see numerous bites every year to people who attempt to catch or kill snakes. Rather phone a local snake remover and get them to come and catch and release the snake for you. The free app ASI Snakes lists over 700 snake removers countrywide as well as snake posters, profiles and first aid for snakebite information.”

Download the app here