Listen to the article
The Nigerian Medical Association’s Lagos branch has issued a strong warning against the spread of misinformation regarding snakebite treatment, emphasizing that inaccurate medical commentary could endanger public health and undermine trust in healthcare providers.
The caution comes amid public discourse following the death of Ifunanya Nwangene, a 26-year-old rising singer based in Abuja who gained national recognition after her appearance on The Voice Nigeria in 2021. Nwangene, known for her distinctive musical style blending jazz, opera, classical, and soul, reportedly died last Saturday after suffering a snake bite.
Dr. Babajide Saheed, chairman of the NMA Lagos branch, expressed particular concern over recent statements made by presenters on a TVC Breakfast Show who questioned established medical protocols, specifically the use of intravenous fluids during the resuscitation of snakebite victims.
“The comments questioning the use of intravenous fluids during resuscitation were misleading, unprofessional, and demonstrated a lack of understanding of standard medical practice,” Dr. Saheed stated. He further noted that such uninformed public scrutiny essentially subjects medical professionals to an “unwarranted media trial.”
Snakebite management represents a critical healthcare issue in Nigeria, where venomous snake species are prevalent in many regions. Standard treatment typically involves administration of antivenin along with supportive care that often includes intravenous fluids to maintain blood pressure and prevent organ damage from venom-induced effects.
The association emphasized that questioning established medical interventions without proper expertise could have far-reaching consequences, potentially dissuading patients from seeking proper treatment or following medical advice during emergencies. This is especially concerning in a country where snakebites remain a significant public health challenge, particularly in rural areas where access to antivenin can be limited.
Dr. Saheed called on media professionals to exercise greater responsibility when covering medical topics, urging them to consult with qualified healthcare experts before broadcasting opinions on medical procedures. “Journalism remains one of the oldest and most respected professions in the world and is widely regarded as the fourth estate in the protection of the rights of citizens,” he stated. “The profession demands fairness, balance, objectivity, and adequate research, particularly when addressing sensitive issues such as healthcare, where misinformation can have serious consequences.”
For families with concerns about medical care, the NMA advised following established grievance channels rather than turning to public media platforms. These official avenues include direct engagement with the hospital involved, contacting relevant professional bodies, or reaching out to statutory regulatory authorities that oversee medical practice standards in Nigeria.
The association also used the opportunity to highlight broader healthcare challenges in the country, calling on government officials at all levels to prioritize healthcare delivery through increased funding, better compensation for healthcare workers, infrastructure improvements, and investment in modern medical equipment and research.
Nigeria’s healthcare system continues to face significant challenges, including shortages of essential medications like antivenin in many facilities. The scarcity of these life-saving treatments, especially in remote areas, has contributed to preventable deaths from snakebites across the country.
The NMA’s statement serves as a reminder of the crucial role accurate medical information plays in public health, particularly in emergency situations where timely and appropriate treatment can mean the difference between life and death.
Fact Checker
Verify the accuracy of this article using The Disinformation Commission analysis and real-time sources.
13 Comments
This is a concerning situation. My condolences to Ifunanya Nwangene’s family. The NMA is right to address the spread of misinformation, as it could put public health at risk. We must rely on the expertise of medical professionals, not uninformed commentary, when it comes to life-saving procedures.
Agreed. Undermining trust in healthcare providers during a medical emergency is especially problematic. The NMA is taking the appropriate steps to ensure the public receives accurate, evidence-based guidance on snakebite treatment.
The NMA is right to be concerned. Questioning established protocols for treating snakebites could lead people to make dangerous decisions. In a medical emergency, it’s critical to follow the guidance of qualified professionals, not unsubstantiated claims.
Agreed. Undermining trust in healthcare providers during a crisis like this can have severe consequences. The public deserves accurate, evidence-based information, not uninformed speculation.
This is an important warning from the NMA. Spreading misinformation about snakebite treatment could have serious public health consequences. It’s crucial that people rely on authoritative medical sources, not unqualified commentary, when it comes to life-saving procedures.
Agreed. Undermining trust in healthcare providers is especially concerning during a medical emergency. The public deserves accurate, evidence-based guidance from qualified experts.
Tragic to hear about the passing of Ifunanya Nwangene. My condolences to her family and fans. While the details are still emerging, it’s clear the NMA is right to caution against unfounded claims that could put lives at risk.
Absolutely. Spreading misinformation, even unintentionally, during a medical crisis like this can have devastating consequences. The NMA is taking the responsible step in setting the record straight.
This is an important reminder that we need to be extremely careful about the medical information we share, especially when it comes to emergency situations. Relying on credible sources is crucial to avoid putting people’s health and safety at risk.
The NMA’s warning is well-justified. Questioning established medical protocols for snakebite treatment, especially in a public forum, could have serious consequences. It’s essential that people seek information from credible, authoritative sources during a crisis like this.
Tragic loss of life. My condolences to Ifunanya Nwangene’s family and loved ones. The NMA is right to caution against the spread of misinformation that could jeopardize proper snakebite treatment. We must rely on medical experts, not unqualified commentary.
Absolutely. In a medical emergency, it’s crucial that the public receives guidance from qualified professionals, not unsubstantiated claims that could lead to dangerous decisions. The NMA is taking the appropriate action to address this issue.
This is a sobering reminder of the importance of responsible medical reporting. Spreading misinformation, even inadvertently, can put lives at risk. The NMA’s warning is a necessary and prudent step to protect public health.