A profile of snakebite cases admitted to a major hospital in Dharwad, Karnataka

Abstract

Incidence of snakebite is common worldwide. Morbidity and mortality related to snakebite is considered as a major public health problem in rural India. The present study highlights the demographic character- istics of snakebite cases in Dharwad, Karnataka, which reflects rural India. All snakebite cases admitted during a retrospective period of 4 years were selected. Total 93 cases were recorded and analyzed. Nearly 64% of the victims were in the age group of 21- 40 years and males comprised 75% cases. Majority of the incidents involved outdoor workers. Lower limbs were the most common site of bite, accounting for 70% of cases. First-aid measures were not undertaken in 95% of cases. This study highlights the sociological impact of snake- bites, and suggests certain preventive measures to re- duce snakebite morbidity and mortality, especially in ru- ral India.