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Snake bite in Nigeria.

A G Habib1, U I Gebi, G C Onyemelukwe

  • 1Department of Medicine(Immunology), Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital, P.M.B 1026, Zaria, Nigeria.

African Journal of Medicine and Medical Sciences
|September 27, 2003
PubMed
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In Nigeria, the carpet viper (Echis ocellatus), spitting cobra (Naja nigricollis), and puff adder (Bitis arietans) are key venomous snakes causing significant envenoming. Health education and targeted immunisation are crucial for prevention, alongside cautious antivenom use.

Area of Science:

  • * Toxicology and Herpetology
  • * Public Health and Epidemiology

Background:

  • * Nigeria faces significant snakebite envenoming, primarily from three species: carpet viper (Echis ocellatus), black-necked spitting cobra (Naja nigricollis), and puff adder (Bitis arietans).
  • * The incidence rate is high at 497 per 100,000 population annually, with Echis ocellatus responsible for a substantial portion of severe cases and a 12% natural mortality rate.
  • * Snakebites predominantly occur during agricultural and herding activities, with specific behaviors like rolling over onto a snake causing bites from spitting cobras.

Purpose of the Study:

  • * To detail the clinical manifestations and pathological effects of envenoming by key Nigerian snake species.
  • * To evaluate diagnostic methods and assess current first aid and treatment strategies, including antivenom efficacy and potential preventive measures.
  • * To explore novel therapeutic approaches, including new antivenoms and traditional herbal remedies.

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Main Methods:

  • * Review of clinical cases and laboratory findings related to snakebite envenoming in Nigeria.
  • * Analysis of venom composition and toxic effects, including procoagulant, haemorrhagic, and cytotoxic activities.
  • * Clinical investigation of a new Fab fragment antivenom for Echis ocellatus and experimental evaluation of local herbal treatments.

Main Results:

  • * Carpet viper venom causes hemorrhage, incoagulable blood, shock, and necrosis. Spitting cobra bites result in local tissue reactions, occasionally bleeding, but typically lack neurotoxicity.
  • * Cardiotoxicity and renal failure are potential complications of carpet viper and puff adder envenoming.
  • * Immunodiagnosis aids in species identification; limb immobilization is a critical first aid measure, and antivenom use requires careful indication.

Conclusions:

  • * Effective snakebite management in Nigeria requires a multi-pronged approach including health education, improved access to healthcare (only 8.5% attend hospitals), and cautious antivenom administration.
  • * Further research into immunisation for high-risk populations and the efficacy of both novel antivenoms and traditional remedies is warranted.
  • * Preventive strategies must address occupational risks and enhance public awareness regarding snakebite dangers and appropriate responses.