Epidemiology: Open Access

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Epidemiological Survey of Snake Bite in Ethiopia

Abebe Mengesha Aga*, Birhanu Hurisa, Bethlehem Niwayesillassie, Gezahegn Kebede, Sisay Kerga, Amha Kebede, Alemayehu Godana, David, Warrell, David Williams, Sisay Taye and Kelbessa Urga

Background: The burden of snake bite in Ethiopia is not known, perhaps due to underreporting, and is difficult to estimate the number of victims because they do not seek medical treatment in government dispensaries. Thus this study aims to indicate the overall magnitude of the problem.

Material and Methods: The study covers 76 health facilities in 8 regional states. For epidemiological and clinical data, health facilities and health professionals were visited to collect retrospective data. Community elders and traditional healers were also consulted for further information.

Result: 949 snake bite cases were identified, where the highest number (244) observed in Oromia regional state. Males are the dominant victims (68.7%). More than 75% of the victims were aged 16-45, where the greatest incidence of snake bite occurred in those aged 21-30 years (32.9%) followed by those aged 11-20 years old (22.4%). Only 5.2% of anti-venom was available in 4 regional states.

Conclusion: Snake bite in Ethiopia is a public health problem and the lack of anti-venom makes things worse. There is insufficient knowledge, skill and experience of how to treat snake bite victims. Registration system is identified as one of the big problems to address the burden of the victims. Therefore it is recommended that training package should be given to health professionals on first-aid and preventive measures, case documentation and reporting. A change of attitude on traditional knowledge by training or awareness should be provided to traditional healers and community elders. Furthermore, the government should take urgent measures to ensure the sustainable availability of antivenom.