Clinical Profile and Healthcare Outcomes of Snakebite Envenomation at a Rural Secondary-care Mission Hospital in North India
Benison P. Baby, Aneetta VargheseAbstract
Background:
Snakebite remains an important cause of morbidity and mortality in rural India, where delayed access to healthcare and limited emergency services contribute to adverse outcomes. Evidence from secondary healthcare centers in North India remains limited. This study aimed to describe the clinicoepidemiological profile and outcomes of snakebite cases presenting to a rural secondary-care mission hospital.
Materials and Methods:
This retrospective observational study included all patients presenting with snakebite to a rural secondary healthcare center in North India between January 1, and December 31, 2024. Data were extracted from hospital records using a structured questionnaire and included demographic characteristics, clinical features, time to presentation, treatment, and outcomes. Associations between categorical variables were assessed using Chi-square testing, with
Results:
A total of 910 snakebite cases were recorded. The mean age was 25 years (range 0.5-78 years), with 485 (53.3%) males and 425 (46.7%) females. Most cases occurred during the monsoon season and agricultural work. Among 165 symptomatic patients, neurotoxic envenomation predominated in 161 (97.6%) cases, while 111 (67.3%) cases required ventilatory support. A total of 544 (60.5%) patients presented within 2 h, whereas 355 (39.5%) presented later. Delayed presentation was significantly associated with mortality (
Conclusion:
Snakebite in this rural North Indian setting was characterized by predominant neurotoxic envenomation, high ventilatory requirements, and substantial prehospital mortality. Improved awareness, rapid transport, early referral, and stronger emergency care are essential to reduce mortality.