The Cebu Provincial Health Office (CPHO) is set to distribute 100 vials of polyvalent anti-venom to provincial hospitals, providing a crucial treatment for snakebite victims across the province. The shipment of the anti-venom, known as "Taradoc," arrived at the Capitol on Friday, July 3, and will be allocated to hospitals in Balamban, Bogo City, Danao City, and Carcar City.
Distribution and Training Requirements
According to Dr. Sheila Faciol, Provincial Officer of the CPHO, each vial will be administered based on patient needs. She clarified that only doctors who have undergone specialized training and received a compassionate special permit from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are authorized to administer the anti-venom. The doses are provided free of charge and can only be obtained under the supervision of a trained physician.
Effectiveness Against Deadly Venom
The anti-venom vials are effective against venom from highly dangerous snakes, including the King Cobra, Philippine Cobra, and Samar Cobra. Bites from these species can be fatal if not treated promptly. The CPHO is currently storing the vials in a cold storage facility while exploring ways to also make the treatment available to the islands within Cebu Province.
