Epidemiology of Snakebite A Study from Choharwa Army Camp, Siraha, Nepal

Abstract

Snakebite is an occupational health hazard seen mostly among farmers, hunters and herders. In Nepal, 23 districts from terai and inner terai region have been reporting snakebite case every year. Limited studies have been conducted so far, to understand the epidemiology of snakebite in Nepal. This study is an attempt to highlight some of the aspects of snakebite epidemiology in Nepal. Siraha is one of the districts where an increase in snakebite cases has been observed every year. Apart from government health institutions, the army camp at Choharwa has been found providing snakebite treatment for civilian population very effectively. This is a retrospective study of 279 cases of suspected snakebite that presented at the camp for treatment in the year 2000. Incidence of snakebite was slightly higher among males (53%) than females (47%) and more frequent in 15-45 years (67%) age group. The highest incidence occurred during the monsoon from June to October (76%), with peak in August. Majorities of the victims were farmers (73%) and bitten mostly by kraits (27%) on the lower extremity (58%), especially on the leg (48%). Snakebite victims were mostly bitten in daytime (61%). Outdoor activities had more risk (57%) for snakebite. The high-risk activities identified were grass cutting (25%) and sleeping (23%) on the ground. Tourniquets were the main first aid measure used by the victims (86%). Mostly, victims were brought to the camp with in one hour after the bite (61%). The average duration of stay in the camp was 18-24 hours in a non-poisonous bite and 2-3 days in poisonous.