East Kalimantan Strengthens Health Workers To Handle Venomous Snakebites
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| East Kalimantan strengthens healthcare capacity to handle venomous snakebites using WHO standards, ensuring antivenom availability across hospitals. (Illustration) |
East Kalimantan Strengthens Healthcare Response To Snakebite Emergencies With WHO Standards
Samarinda — The East Kalimantan Provincial Health Office is strengthening the capacity of healthcare workers and volunteers to handle emergency cases caused by venomous snakebites. This effort is carried out through the implementation of standardized treatment protocols from the World Health Organization to ensure faster and more accurate patient care.
Head of the East Kalimantan Health Office, Jaya Mualimin, confirmed that antivenom stocks are currently secure and centrally available at the provincial level.
“We ensure that antivenom stock is fully available at the Health Office, allowing all hospitals in East Kalimantan to request it immediately for systemic cases after consultation,” he said in Samarinda on Saturday.
Cross-Agency Collaboration And National Expertise
The initiative is conducted in collaboration with the Samarinda Fire and Rescue Department through a hybrid training program. It also features clinical toxicology expert from the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Indonesia, Tri Maharani.
A real case study from RSUD Abdoel Wahab Sjahranie was highlighted during the session. In late March, the hospital successfully treated a patient suffering from a severe neurotoxic snakebite, resulting in full recovery without permanent disability.
According to Jaya, the success was driven by strict adherence to medical standards, including immobilization, airway management, and timely administration of antivenom.
“The patient was even able to be weaned off a ventilator within two days, showing how critical proper procedures are,” he explained.
Antivenom Availability And Government Support
East Kalimantan currently relies on several specific antivenoms, including Polineuro Thailand, Polihemato Thailand, and Seasnake Australia. All supplies are provided as grants from the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Indonesia.
This availability plays a vital role in the regional referral system, ensuring that patients with severe conditions receive timely and effective treatment.
Public Education: Stay Calm And Avoid Myths
The Health Office also urges the public to remain calm when dealing with snakebite incidents. Proper first aid can significantly impact survival outcomes.
Tri Maharani emphasized that the first step is to minimize movement (immobilization), as venom spreads through the lymphatic system rather than the bloodstream.
“Common practices such as tightly tying the affected area, sucking the wound, or pouring hot water on it are dangerous myths and strictly discouraged,” she said.
She further advised the public to seek immediate medical attention, especially if symptoms such as drooping eyelids, difficulty swallowing, or gum bleeding occur.
FAQ
1. What should you do if bitten by a snake?
Stay calm, immobilize the affected area, and seek immediate medical help.
2. Does snake venom spread through the bloodstream?
No, it primarily spreads through the lymphatic system.
3. Is it safe to suck out snake venom?
No, it is a harmful myth and should not be done.
4. Is antivenom available in East Kalimantan?
Yes, the Health Office ensures sufficient and accessible stock for hospitals.
5. When should you go to the hospital after a snakebite?
Immediately, especially if symptoms like weakness, difficulty breathing, or bleeding appear.
