Background:
Snakebite is a major global public health issue recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO), with India accounting for nearly half of worldwide snakebite deaths. Despite the magnitude, available data are limited. This study describes the clinical spectrum, management strategies, and outcomes of snake envenomation cases at a tertiary care center in North India.
Materials and methods:
After ethical approval, a retrospective analysis of all snakebite cases admitted over 1 year was conducted. Data on demographics, clinical presentation, management, and outcomes were analyzed using descriptive statistics.
Results:
Most victims were young males (80%), and the lower limbs were the commonest bite sites (87%). The mean time to reach the nearest hospital was 7 hours, with referral to our tertiary center occurring after an average of 34 hours. Neurotoxic (Elapidae) and vasculotoxic (Viperidae) bites accounted for 49 and 34.5% of cases, respectively. Antisnake venom (ASV) usage varied widely, reflecting the lack of a standardized protocol. Despite delayed presentation, there were no fatalities.
Conclusion:
Polyvalent ASV in India targets only four snake species, limiting its effectiveness. Wide variability in treatment practices underscores the urgent need for standardized national protocols, improved primary care training, and better public awareness.
}, year = {2025}, journal = {Journal of Acute Care}, volume = {4}, pages = {115-119}, month = {12/2025}, publisher = {Jaypee Brothers Medical Publishing}, issn = {3107-5363}, url = {https://www.jacutecare.com/doi/JAC/pdf/10.5005/jp-journals-10089-0191}, doi = {10.5005/jp-journals-10089-0191}, language = {ENG}, }