Snakebite cases and treatment outcomes in the Afar region, Ethiopia: a retrospective and prospective study approach

Background Snakebite envenomation remains a public health issue, particularly in rural areas. Quick and accurate case identification, coupled with timely treatment, is essential to prevent fatalities and complications.

Methods Retrospective and prospective data consisted of 245 snakebite cases admitted to hospitals in the Afar region, Ethiopia, from September 2023 to July 2024 (retrospective), while prospective data were collected from July to October 2024. The analysis focused on case prevalence, time to treatment, service availability, treatment received, length of hospital stays, recovery times and patient outcomes.

Results Of 245 cases, 66.1% (n=162) were retrospective and 33.9% (n=83) prospective. Most patients were male (71.6%); the largest age group was 15–29 y (59.6%); most patients required hospital stays of 2–3 d (56.7%). In the majority of cases, recovery took 4–7 d (36.23%). The fatality rate was 3.3%; >46.54% of patients received treatment >7 d after snakebite, mainly because of the long distance traveled to reach healthcare facilities with access to antivenom.

Conclusions It is essential to strengthen community health units by equipping them with trained personnel and sufficient antivenom supplies to ensure prompt care. Implementing public awareness and promoting local antivenom production could reduce treatment costs and improve patient outcomes.