Tagwirei publishes snakebite management guidebook

University of Zimbabwe pharmacist, toxicologist and academic, Professor Dexter Tagwireyi, has published the country's first comprehensive snakebite management guidebook, aimed at reducing deaths and injuries through prevention, education, and improved treatment.

The 145-page publication, Medically Important Venomous Snakebite in Zimbabwe: An Aid to Health Care Providers, provides practical guidance on patient observation, supportive care, antivenom administration, and the importance of timely medical attention. It also features detailed profiles of venomous snakes found in Zimbabwe, with high-resolution images and names in Shona and Ndebele to improve understanding.

"I wrote this guide with Zimbabwean healthcare providers and students of health sciences in mind," Prof Tagwireyi said. "However, it will also be of benefit to anyone seeking an overview of venomous snakes and snakebite management in Zimbabwe. The publication is informed by over two decades of practice and experience as a toxicologist and poisons information specialist."

Zimbabwe, like many developing nations, continues to struggle with the burden of snakebites. Ministry of Health data shows that in 2023 there were 707 reported cases and three deaths, while 2024 recorded a sharp rise to 2 917 cases and 14 deaths. This year alone, 2 193 snakebites and nine fatalities have been documented. Many more cases go unreported, particularly in rural areas where victims rely on traditional remedies instead of medical care.

The country spends significant amounts of foreign currency importing antivenoms from India and South Africa, with each vial costing between US$80 and US$150. On average, treating a snakebite requires five to six vials, and much more in severe cases involving neurotoxic species such as the black mamba. Shortages of foreign currency, erratic supplies, poor road infrastructure and lack of refrigeration in rural clinics have all compounded access challenges.

"Unfortunately, the brunt of this issue is often felt in poorer nations that are home to the majority of venomous snakes," Prof Tagwireyi explained. "Even when antivenoms are available, the costs and logistics involved often make access prohibitive."

His guide seeks to close knowledge gaps by offering practical advice on snakebite prevention, first aid, and proper medical response. It also dispels myths and misconceptions surrounding snakes and snakebites, which often lead to harmful traditional practices and delayed treatment.

Zimbabwe is home to about 80 snake species, with 20 considered dangerous. Six of them — including the black mamba, puff adder, Mozambique spitting cobra, boomslang, snouted cobra and gaboon viper — account for most fatalities. Globally, snakebites cause up to 138 000 deaths each year, with sub-Saharan Africa recording around 32 000 deaths and 100 000 survivors suffering permanent injuries.

Prof Tagwireyi hopes the book will become an essential tool for healthcare workers, students, and communities across Zimbabwe. "I hope this book will go a long way in contributing to dealing with the issue of venomous snakebite in Zimbabwe and that readers will find it most useful," he said.

The guide comes ahead of the snake season, which runs from September to March, and is expected to serve as a critical resource in reducing human-snake conflict and improving health outcomes for years to come.