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The Hidden Health Crisis of Snakebites: The Costly Production of Antivenom and Innovative Solutions

Snakebites result in as many as 137,000 deaths annually, creating a hidden health crisis. The production of antivenom is expensive and relies on injecting snake venom into animals like horses. However, innovative solutions are being explored to address this problem.

Challenges in Antivenom Production

⚠️Producing antivenom is expensive and relies on injecting snake venom into animals like horses.

⚠️As many as 137,000 people die from snakebites annually, leading to a hidden health crisis.

⚠️Finding alternative methods to produce antivenom is crucial in solving this problem.

Innovative Approaches and Initiatives

🐍Australia has more venomous snakes than nonvenomous snakes, making it the only country in the world with that distinction.

🐍Billy milks over 100 different snakes each week, including the dangerous coastal taipan, which has venom that can cause paralysis.

FAQ

What is the cost of setting up an antivenom manufacturing facility?

Setting up an antivenom manufacturing facility can cost between $10 million and $30 million USD.

How are researchers working to make antivenom more affordable and accessible?

Researchers are working to make antivenom more affordable and accessible, with funding from institutions like the Naturalis museum.

What is the main challenge in getting antivenom to snakebite victims in rural areas?

Roughly 65% of India's population lives in rural areas, making it difficult to get antivenom to snakebite victims.

How is horse blood used in the production of antivenom?

The process involves collecting blood from the horse's jugular vein. Horse blood has been used to make treatments since the 1800s.

Which countries have significantly reduced snakebite death rates?

Costa Rica and Australia have significantly reduced snakebite death rates due to government investment and free antivenom treatment.

Summary with Timestamps

💉 0:36Millions of people suffer from venomous snakebites each year, resulting in a shortage of antivenom and thousands of deaths.
🐍 3:38Australia is home to over 100 venomous snake species, with each snake's venom containing a unique cocktail of toxins that can attack the body and potentially kill a human within minutes.
💉 6:51Horses are injected with venom to produce antibodies for antivenom.
⚠️ 9:16Snakebite deaths in India and Sub-Saharan Africa are a major problem due to lack of access to antivenom.

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The Hidden Health Crisis of Snakebites: The Costly Production of Antivenom and Innovative SolutionsHealthInfectious Diseases
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