University of Sindh has prepared the vaccination to save life from snake-biting through its serology laboratory established at Institute of Bio-Chemistry. The production has been named as Anti Snake Venom (ASV). Acquiring adequate experience in producing the said injections, the University is now able to launch a Venomology Research Laboratory which would be unique of its kind and synchronise abilities to support not only the sister departments of Sindh University but other universities in Pakistan too.
The cited lab arrangements of Sindh University could enable production of some cost effective Anti-Snake Venom which is under clinical trial and registration with WHO Iran office, and it can also be helpful for some other countries.
On the invitation of the Project Director of the ASV laboratory Dr Naeem Ul Haque Qureshi, an Australian Strategic Financial Analyst, Shane Delphine, visited SU and reviewed the laboratory procedures of ASV production at the Institute of Biochemistry, University of Sindh.
He advised certain practical ways to minimise ASV production cost. Shane also examined the feasibility of transferring this very cost effective technology to other poor countries in Asia and Africa, where snake and dog bite is a major public health problem. Afterwards, Shane Delphine called on the Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Abida Taherani, who is already delighted with the role of Sindh University in levelling decades old demand of rural communities.
Dean Faculty of Natural Sciences Professor Dr Abdul Rasool Abbasi, Director, Institute of Biochemistry Professor Dr Allah Bux Ghanghro, Chairmen, Department of Fresh Water Biology Professor Dr Naeem Tarique Narejo and Deputy Project Director ASV Laboratory Dr Mohammed Bux Bhurgri were also present on the occasion.
Talking to Delphine, the VC said that Sindh University might enable Pakistan to donate such hi-technology to some needy developing countries. The participants reviewed various operational aspects of the technology and found the idea workable. However, it was perceived that it is quite premature at the stage to look for any international assistance or linkage until and unless the product is qualified for WHO accreditation.
The participants lauded the role of Sindh University in assisting the provincial health department to cope with the acute shortage of ASV prevailing over many decades and found it a good example of the university market engaging in some need-oriented action research. The dean called for inaugurating the first ever venomology research laboratory as soon as possible.
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