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Factors affecting snakebite mortality in north-eastern Nigeria

A G Habib1, S B Abubakar

  • 1Infectious & Tropical Diseases Unit, Department of Medicine, Bayero University Kano/Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, PMB 3452, Kano, Kano Sate, Nigeria.

International Health
|September 17, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Snakebite deaths in West Africa are linked to unreliable antivenom supply and delayed treatment. Prompt medical care and accessible, effective antivenoms are crucial for reducing snakebite mortality.

Area of Science:

  • Medical Research
  • Public Health
  • Toxicology

Background:

  • Snakebite envenoming is a significant cause of mortality in rural West African populations.
  • The savannah region of West Africa experiences a high burden of snakebite incidents.
  • Understanding the determinants of snakebite mortality is critical for effective public health interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the causes of death among snakebite victims in north-eastern Nigeria.
  • To identify risk factors and protective measures associated with snakebite mortality.
  • To evaluate the impact of antivenom availability on snakebite outcomes.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective review of snakebite patients managed at Kaltungo, Nigeria, over a 36-month period.
  • Statistical analysis including relative risk, logistic regression, and odds ratios to identify predictors of mortality.
  • Assessment of factors such as antivenom reliability, time to hospitalization, and clinical features.

Main Results:

  • A total of 94 deaths occurred among 6687 snakebite victims (1.41% mortality rate).
  • Unreliable antivenom supply significantly increased mortality risk (RR = 2.29).
  • Key predictors of mortality included new central nervous system features (OR = 24.61) and delayed hospitalization (OR for every 1-hour delay = 1.01); antivenom treatment was protective (OR = 0.17).

Conclusions:

  • Ensuring a consistent supply of affordable, effective, and regionally appropriate antivenoms is paramount.
  • Reducing delays in seeking medical attention and expanding access to treatment are vital.
  • Public education on bite prevention and timely treatment is essential for mitigating snakebite mortality.

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