Snake Bite prevention and Treatment Program. Snake bites pose a serious health risk in communities surrounding national parks and tourist destinations in Uganda. Pamoja Afya (Health) Initiative therefore promotes a multi-faceted approach to snake bite prevention and treatment that involves education, preparedness, emergency response, and treatment accessibility.
The program is implemented in high risk snake bite areas and it is involved in carrying out the following interventions:-
Community Education and Awareness
The program is engaged in educating of communities surrounding national parks about snake behavior and safety measures. Community members are empowered with knowledge on how to identify venomous and non-venomous snakes, safe ways to deter and relocate snakes from homes and farms, instead of killing them so as to maintain ecological balance and mobilizing schools and residential areas to establish snake-proof fences , distribution of IEC materals and educational videos to increase the knowledge of snake bite prevention.
Training First Responders and Medical Personnel
Pamoja Afya (Health) Initiative recognizes that quick and proper medical intervention is essential in saving lives after a snake bite. Our program therefore trains local health workers and volunteers in snake bite first-aid and emergency management as well as in providing first-aid kits specifically designed for snake bites in homes, schools, and workplaces. The program trains snake bite response teams who transport victims to medical facilities quickly and also collaborate with hospitals to ensure an adequate supply of anti-venom.
Enhancing Access to Anti-Venom and Treatment Facilities
Pamoja Afya (Health) Initiative also increases access to anti-venom as many rural areas lack access to anti-venom. Which leads to fatalities that could have been prevented. The program has established a snake bite helpline in different communities. Which helps victims can get immediate guidance on what to do before reaching a hospital. Working with Village Health Teams. The program sets up mobile clinics in remote areas to provide emergency treatment and follow-up care
Collaboration with Local and International Organizations
Pamoja Afya (Health Initiative Works together with government bodies, non-profits, and wildlife conservation organizations. To increase advocacy on legislative support for better snake bite treatment policies. Emergency response improvements and getting expertise on snake behavior, habitat management, and venom research. Snake Bite prevention and Treatment Program.