Venomous animal bites and stings in active component U.S. service members, 2008-2023

This study characterizes all medically diagnosed bites and stings in active component service members (ACSMs) from snakes, venomous fish, other venomous marine animals, arthropods, and insects identified through an evaluation of medical data from the Defense Medical Surveillance System (DMSS). Incident trends were determined from 2008 through 2023, and incidence rates (IRs) and incidence rate ratios (IRRs) were calculated. In total, there were 42,552 venomous bite and sting medical encounters among 39,201 ACSMs, resulting in an IR of 19.3 cases per 10,000 person-years (p-yrs) during the surveillance period. Most cases occurred in men ages 20-34 years, non-Hispanic White individuals, Army service members, and junior enlisted ranks. IRs were elevated in female (25.0 per 10,000 p-yrs), youngest (<20 years, 24.5 per 10,000 p-yrs), and Coast Guard or U.S. Public Health Service (23.4 per 10,000 p-yrs) ACSMs. Arthropods were the primary source (75.0%) of stings and bites. IRR calculations suggest that women had a 37.0% higher risk than men. These study findings demonstrate the continuing susceptibility of ACSMs to venomous encounters and the importance of targeted prevention strategies, training, and comprehensive medical support to maintain force readiness. Venomous bites and stings are a persistent health concern for active component service members. Arthropods are the most common culprit, but risks vary by sex, age, and military occupation. This report also reveals that younger service members and women are disproportionately affected.