The World Health Organization (WHO) has passed a ruling recognising snake bites as a global health priority. WHO says complications from snake bites continue to be one of the most ignored tropical diseases. The resolution moves towards ensuring that countries follow a common strategy in dealing with snake attacks.
This will include providing cheaper antidotes and training. Over 100,000 people die of snake bites annually around the world - a fifth of them in Africa.
Nearly half a million people face blindness, amputations and other disabilities following snake bites.
In Nigeria, it is estimated that more than 10,000 people are bitten by snakes each year, but the exact death toll is unknown.
Credit: BBC
