 |
| Image: Facebook |
The Nigerian entertainment industry and the nation at large were left in shock following the untimely death of Ifunanya Nwangene, the 26-year-old architectural graduate and rising star of The Voice Nigeria. Known on stage as Nanyah, she had earned acclaim for her powerful soprano voice and mastery of opera and jazz, earning her the nickname “Soprano Queen.” Her life was tragically cut short on January 31, 2026, after a snakebite incident in her Abuja residence.
Ifunanya was reportedly bitten by a cobra while asleep. Despite prompt attempts to seek medical care, she succumbed to the venom at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Jabi. The tragedy has reignited urgent discussions about the accessibility of anti-venom and the lack of public knowledge on proper emergency responses to snakebites.
“Nanyah’s passing is a devastating reminder that venomous snakebites remain a serious and often overlooked public health issue in Nigeria,” health experts said.
Nigeria is home to several highly venomous snakes, including the Carpet Viper, Cobra, and Puff Adder. Survival in such cases often depends on immediate and correct first aid during the crucial “Golden Hour,” the first 60 minutes after a bite. Experts have emphasised the following emergency measures:
1. Stay Calm
Panic accelerates heart rate, allowing venom to circulate faster through the bloodstream.
2. Immobilise the Affected Limb
Movement spreads venom via the lymphatic system. Use a splint to keep the bitten arm or leg immobile. The limb should be kept at or slightly below heart level; avoid elevation, which can hasten venom circulation.
3. Pressure Immobilisation Bandage (PIB)
For neurotoxic snake bites, like those from cobras or mambas, a broad pressure bandage applied from the fingers or toes upward helps slow venom spread. Wrap firmly but not so tight that it cuts off circulation—you should still feel a pulse.
4. Remove Constrictive Items
Rings, bracelets, watches, and tight clothing must be removed immediately to prevent them from acting as tourniquets as the limb swells.
5. Identify, But Don’t Engage
If safe, take a quick photo or note the snake’s characteristics. This helps medical staff determine whether polyvalent or species-specific anti-venom is needed. Attempting to kill or capture the snake is extremely dangerous.
6. Rapid Transport to a Major Medical Facility
Smaller clinics often lack the cold-chain storage needed for anti-venom. Victims should be taken directly to FMCs or University Teaching Hospitals. If possible, call ahead to ensure anti-venom is available.
What Not To Do:
• Do not use a tourniquet: Tying a rope or belt above the bite traps venom in the limb, risking tissue destruction and possible amputation.
• Do not cut or suck the wound: This is ineffective and may introduce infection or worsen bleeding.
• Do not apply heat or ice: Neither neutralises venom, and ice can worsen tissue damage.
• Do not rely on black stone or herbs: Traditional remedies have no proven effect and can delay critical hospital care.
Snakebites remain a significant health concern in Nigeria, with an estimated 15,000–20,000 cases annually, particularly in North-Central regions like Abuja and the Gombe/Taraba axis. Ifunanya’s death has intensified calls for government intervention to make anti-venom more accessible and to raise awareness about emergency protocols.
“Nanyah’s loss should serve as a wake-up call for authorities to subsidise anti-venom and ensure it is stocked in every local government area,” health advocates said.
For the general public, the guiding principle remains: stay calm, immobilise the limb, and reach a major hospital immediately. In the tragic case of Ifunanya Nwangene, early intervention might have saved a promising young life whose voice had already touched millions. Her passing is a somber reminder of the deadly risks posed by snakebites and the urgent need for improved public awareness.
#NollywoodTimes
#TrendingNow
#Remedy
No comments:
Post a Comment