Addressing antivenoms issues

The use of antivenom is one of the main control measures for snakebite envenoming. The effectiveness of any antivenom can be affected by a range of issues. Ensuring that the right venoms are used to produce the immune plasma from which antivenom is made, and that the horses or other animals used to generate this antibody-rich plasma are healthy, well cared-for, and receive excellent veterinary supervision can make a big difference to the quality and effectiveness of the final product. Strengthening the capacity of antivenom manufacturers in these and other areas of production is essential. Likewise, building strong regulatory systems that can provide robust governance of these unique drugs is also essential. WHO is already working with manufacturers and regulatory agencies to effect change.

At the centre of the control strategy is the challenge of improving access to high-quality antivenoms that are suitable for use in regions in which they are marketed, and developing mechanisms to increase their availability through collective bulk purchasing by consortia (governments, nongovernmental organizations, aid donors) or via other novel supply and distribution schemes. Designing distribution pathways and systems to ensure that antivenoms are available at locations close to where bites occur is also vital. The majority of people who need antivenom cannot afford the current cost of most products. Financing antivenoms in such a way that no patient or their family has to pay more than an equitably nominal cost for treatment is another step towards increased accessibility.