Snakebite Envenomingin Latin America and the Caribbean

Abstract

Envenomings induced by snakebites constitute a serious public health problem in Latin America. This condition affects predominantly vulnerable rural populations and has a high impact in regions where the provision of health services is deficient. Most envenomings are provoked by species of the genera Bothrops and Crotalus, classified in the family Viperidae, whereas about 1 % of cases are due to Micrurus species (family Elapidae). There are laboratories in several countries in the region which manufacture antivenoms. Scientific and biotechnological research has generated a significant body of knowledge on snakes and their venoms and on antivenoms. Despite important advances in the control of these envenomings in Latin America, it is necessary to strengthen regional efforts in order to (a) improve the knowledge on snakes and their venoms; (b) acquire information on the incidence and mortality of snakebite envenomings; (c) increase the volume of antivenom produced and, in some cases, the quality of antivenoms; (d) improve the regulatory work of national quality control laboratories; (e) develop knowledge-based strategies of distribution of antivenoms; (f) consolidate continuous education programs for the health staff in charge of the treatment of these envenomings; (g) ensure support to people that suffer physical or psychological sequelae as a consequence of these envenomings; and (h) strengthen community programs aimed at improving the prevention and adequate management of snakebites. The development of inter-programmatic and inter-sectorial projects in this field should be promoted in the region, involving multiple actors and institutions, within a frame of regional cooperation programs.