The Ministry of Health has stocked 86 health facilities in Kitui County with anti-venom drugs to help curb the rising cases of snake bites across the region.
Speaking to the media, Kitui County Medical Supplies Chief Officer, Aggrey Kamba, confirmed that all eight sub-counties now have Level 4 hospitals, several health centers, and dispensaries equipped with anti-venoms—particularly in areas prone to venomous snake attacks.
“The first thing after a person is bitten by a snake, he or she should rush to the nearest health center for the anti-venom injection. After the injection, the patient can be referred to a level 4 hospital for further medication since some snakes are very poisonous,” said Kamba.
“The patient should be taken to hospital in less than 30 minutes after a snake bite, the anti-venon we have supplied is meant to save lives in such emergencies,” he added.
Kamba further noted that hospital visits in Kitui have risen by 37%, urging residents to seek immediate medical attention at the nearest facility in case of snake bites.
To safeguard the drugs and ensure accountability, the Ministry has also rolled out digital monitoring systems aimed at preventing theft and other forms of malpractice.
