Overcoming the snakebite challenge in Sudan: a call to action

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Tropical Medicine
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Snakebite envenomation is a significant neglected tropical disease in sub-Saharan Africa, with Sudan experiencing a high burden.
• Cases range from mild to fatal, impacting millions and straining healthcare resources.
• Sudan faces unique challenges including a weak health system, limited healthcare access, and antivenom shortages.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the challenges in snakebite envenomation control in Sudan.
• To provide recommendations for reducing the burden of this neglected tropical disease.

Main Methods:

• This article reviews the current situation of snakebite envenomation in Sudan.
• It identifies key obstacles in prevention, treatment, and management.
• Recommendations are formulated based on identified challenges.

Main Results:

• Sudan reports an estimated 12,632 snakebite cases annually, with a 2.5% mortality rate.
• Weak health infrastructure, poor access to medical facilities, and antivenom scarcity are critical barriers.
• Effective snakebite control strategies are hampered by these systemic issues.

Conclusions:

• Urgent interventions are needed to strengthen Sudan's health system for snakebite management.
• Improving antivenom availability and accessibility is crucial for reducing mortality.
• A multi-faceted approach is required to effectively control snakebite envenomation in Sudan.