Villagers near the northern Nigerian city of Kano are said to have employed snake charmers in an effort to halt a series of deaths caused by snake bites.

Local media reports say about 150 people have been bitten in the area in the past week; 30 have died.

The survivors are said to be receiving treatment at government medical centres.

Residents are hoping the snake charmers will be able to ward off the snakes and help to heal those still suffering the effects of the bites.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service