Snake envenomation remains a public health problem in Mwingi Sub-County, Kenya. This study analysed the epidemiological and demographic trends of snakebites in the sub-county. A cross-sectional mixed-methods design was used. Structured questionnaires were used to collect quantitative data from 100 snakebite survivors, and interviews were conducted with 40 purposively selected key informants to provide qualitative data. Quantitative data were analysed descriptively (descriptive statistics), and qualitative data were analysed thematically. The results revealed high exposure to snakes, with most participants reporting 1 bite; however, some also reported multiple bites. The findings identified cobras as the most commonly reported snake species involved in snakebite incidents in Kitui County. Few incidents were reported, with higher rates at home and in the afternoon, and increased occurrence during the dry season. All age groups were affected; sufferers were mostly over 55, with males outnumbering females. The study found that the distribution of snakebites in the Mwingi area is detectable, i.e., demographic, geographical, temporal and seasonal patterns exist. The study also recommends targeted community awareness, surveillance, and prevention measures that focus on high-risk populations and environments.
BT - International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science DA - 08/2026 DO - 10.47772/ijriss.2026.100800730 IS - 8 LA - ENG M3 - Article N2 -Snake envenomation remains a public health problem in Mwingi Sub-County, Kenya. This study analysed the epidemiological and demographic trends of snakebites in the sub-county. A cross-sectional mixed-methods design was used. Structured questionnaires were used to collect quantitative data from 100 snakebite survivors, and interviews were conducted with 40 purposively selected key informants to provide qualitative data. Quantitative data were analysed descriptively (descriptive statistics), and qualitative data were analysed thematically. The results revealed high exposure to snakes, with most participants reporting 1 bite; however, some also reported multiple bites. The findings identified cobras as the most commonly reported snake species involved in snakebite incidents in Kitui County. Few incidents were reported, with higher rates at home and in the afternoon, and increased occurrence during the dry season. All age groups were affected; sufferers were mostly over 55, with males outnumbering females. The study found that the distribution of snakebites in the Mwingi area is detectable, i.e., demographic, geographical, temporal and seasonal patterns exist. The study also recommends targeted community awareness, surveillance, and prevention measures that focus on high-risk populations and environments.
PB - RSIS International PY - 2026 SP - 10740 EP - 10754 T2 - International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science TI - Epidemiological and Demographic Trends of Snakebites in Mwingi Sub-County, Kenya UR - https://rsisinternational.org/journals/ijriss/uploads/vol10-iss8-pg10740-10754-202609_pdf.pdf VL - 10 SN - 2454-6186, 2454-6186 ER -