Descriptive Analysis of Snakebite Surveillance Data in North Bank West Region, The Gambia, 2017 – 2021

Abstract

Background: Snakebites affect about 5.4 million people worldwide resulting in over 137,880 deaths per year. In Sub-Saharan Africa, the incidence of snakebite cases is generally underestimated despite the adverse effect of snakebite when it occurs. We therefore conducted this study to describe the incidence of snakebites in the North Bank West Region of the Gambia. Methods: We reviewed snakebite surveillance data from 1st Jan 2017 to 31st Dec 2021 as recorded in health facility registers in North Bank West Region of The Gambia. Variables extracted were age, sex, date reported, health facility name, district of residence, and case outcome. We summarized the data by person, place, and time and results were presented using frequencies and proportions in tables, charts, graphs and maps. Results: A total of 197 cases were reported, the median age was 20 (IQR:13 -30) years, and males were 69.0% (136/197). 35.0% (69/197) of snakebite victims were between age group 10-19 years of age. There was a 5-year incidence rate of 31 snakebite cases per 100,000 population with a case fatality ratio of 4.1%. Jokadou District recorded the highest number of incidences (14 cases per 10,000) in 2017. 72.6% (143/197) of the snakebites occurred during the rainy season (June-October). The year 2020 recorded the highest incidence of snakebite in the region, 59 snakebite cases per 100,000 population. Conclusion: There was a high incidence of snakebite cases recorded and Jokadou District recording the highest with the peak occurring during the rainy season. We recommend that the Regional Health Directorate work with health facilities to regularly organize health education activities for the communities, especially during the start of the rainy season.