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.