Abstract
Snakebite is an occupational health hazard seen mostly among farmers, hunters andherders. In Nepal, 23 districts from terai and inner terai region have been reportingsnakebite case every year. Limited studies have been conducted so far, to understandthe epidemiology of snakebite in Nepal. This study is an attempt to highlight some ofthe aspects of snakebite epidemiology in Nepal.Siraha is one of the districts where an increase in snakebite cases has been observedevery year. Apart from government health institutions, the army camp at Choharwahas been found providing snakebite treatment for civilian population very effectively.This is a retrospective study of 279 cases of suspected snakebite that presented at thecamp for treatment in the year 2000.Incidence of snakebite was slightly higher among males (53%) than females (47%)and more frequent in 15-45 years (67%) age group. The highest incidence occurredduring the monsoon from June to October (76%), with peak in August. Majorities ofthe victims were farmers (73%) and bitten mostly by kraits (27%) on the lowerextremity (58%), especially on the leg (48%). Snakebite victims were mostly bitten indaytime (61%). Outdoor activities had more risk (57%) for snakebite. The high-riskactivities identified were grass cutting (25%) and sleeping (23%) on the ground.Tourniquets were the main first aid measure used by the victims (86%). Mostly, victimswere brought to the camp with in one hour after the bite (61%). The average durationof stay in the camp was 18-24 hours in a non-poisonous bite and 2-3 days in poisonous.
Highlights
More than 3,500 species of snakes have been identified of which about 500 are poisonous
Necessary data and information on snakebite victims were extracted from the snakebite register available at Choharwa Army Camp (CAC) treatment center
The study has revealed that a total of 279 cases of snakebite were treated in Choharwa army camp during January to December 2000
Summary
More than 3,500 species of snakes have been identified of which about 500 are poisonous. In Nepal, a total of 75 species of snakes have been reported so far, in which 20 are poisonous. The most commonly found poisonous snakes from terai and inner terai includes, 4 species of krait, 3 species of cobra, 9 species of viper, 1 species each of coral snake, Himalayan pit viper, mountain pit viper and Russel’s viper. The distribution of these poisonous snakes depends largely on the geography and climate. The species of krait are found below 2,000 meters while the species of cobras are confined to the terai.[1,3]
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