AUSTRALIA and Papua New Guinea (PNG) have launched a renewed phase of their PNG Snakebite Partnership, aimed at addressing the significant issue of snakebites and improving
healthcare outcomes across the nation.
Implemented by St John Ambulance in collaboration with Commonwealth Serum Laboratories (CSL) / Seqirus Pty Ltd and the National Department of Health, this initiative
builds upon the foundation established by the Charles Campbell Toxinology Centre and the Australian Venom Research Unit (AVRU) of the University of Melbourne over the past five years.
The partnership’s primary focus remains on tackling the critical shortage of snakebite
antivenoms and reducing fatalities caused by snakebites in PNG. Since its inception
in 2018, the PNG Snakebite Partnership has saved more than 2,000 lives and provided essential training to over 1,500 healthcare professionals from 70 health facilities across 13
provinces. The project has also played a crucial role in assisting the PNG Government in
establishing a sustainable supply chain for antivenoms.
Australia’s High Commissioner to PNG, John Feakes, expressed satisfaction with the ongoing support for the project, highlighting Australia’s commitment to improving health
outcomes in PNG. He welcomed the extension of the partnership, which continues to
ensure that lifesaving antivenoms are readily available throughout the country.
Dr. Dora Lenturut-Katal, Deputy Health Secretary for National Health Standards and Compliance, emphasized the severity of the public health challenge posed by snakebites
and stressed the importance of improving antivenom supply and providing specialized
training to save lives.
Jules Bayliss, CSL Seqirus Medical Director, underscored the critical role of timely access
to antivenoms in enabling healthcare providers to deliver optimal patient care. He expressed
pride in contributing significantly to healthcare delivery across PNG by improving access to antivenoms.
The renewal of the PNG Snakebite Partnership represents a significant milestone in addressing the complexities associated with snakebite management in PNG. It builds upon past achievements and underscores the ongoing commitment to safeguarding the health and wellbeing of communities against the devastating impact of snakebites.
**Snakebites in Papua New Guinea: A Persistent Public Health Challenge**
Snakebites pose a serious health challenge in Papua New Guinea (PNG), contributing
to hundreds of fatalities annually, particularly in rural areas with limited healthcare
access. The country is home to various venomous snakes, including the deadly Papuan
taipan (Oxyuranus scutellatus canni), which is known for its potent venom capable of
causing rapid paralysis and death without prompt medical intervention.
Regions such as the Southern Highlands and Gulf provinces are particularly affected
by snakebites due to higher populations of venomous snakes like the Papuan taipan.
This necessitates heightened awareness and preparedness among local populations and
healthcare providers.
The PNG Snakebite Partnership, recently renewed by Australia and PNG authorities, plays a crucial role in addressing these challenges. Led by St John Ambulance and supported by CSL / Seqirus Pty Ltd, the partnership focuses on improving access to life-saving antivenoms and enhancing the capabilities of healthcare professionals in snakebite management. This collaborative effort has already saved over 2,000 lives and provided training across 70 healthcare facilities nationwide.
Looking ahead, sustained efforts in snakebite prevention, treatment, and community
education remain crucial. By strengthening antivenom supply chains, expanding training
programs, and raising awareness among vulnerable communities, PNG can mitigate the devastating impact of snakebites and improve health outcomes across the country. International partnerships like the PNG Snakebite Partnership underscore the importance
of global cooperation in addressing significant public health challenges, ensuring that lives are saved and communities are protected from the threat of snakebites in Papua New Guinea.
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