Epidemiology and hotspot identification of venomous snakebites in northeastern Argentina (2018–2022)

Objectives

South America harbours the greatest diversity of snake species worldwide. Northeastern Argentina (NEA) contains the highest national diversity, with 109 species and subspecies, representing 80% of Argentina’s total snake fauna. This study aimed to describe the epidemiological profile of snakebite incidents caused by venomous species in NEA between 2018 and 2022 and to identify areas at highest risk.

Methods

This study examined the epidemiological profile and geographical distribution of snakebite incidents in NEA between 2018 and 2022.

Results

The NEA region is particularly vulnerable, representing 58.12% of incidents, especially in rural areas, and exhibits clear seasonal variation, with a higher incidence during the warmer summer months. Departments showing a higher risk of snakebite accidents were identified, including Iguazú and Guaraní in Misiones, Santo Tomé in Corrientes, Libertador General San Martín in Chaco, and Patiño in Formosa. These incidents mainly affected middle-aged adult males.

Clinically, Bothrops envenomations usually caused mild local effects, such as intense pain, bleeding, and edema, whereas Crotalus and Micrurus bites were associated with neurological manifestations. Treatment mainly involved tetravalent or bivalent antivenoms for Bothrops cases and specific antivenom for Crotalus, while Micrurus cases did not receive antivenom therapy.

Conclusions

The identification of new high-risk areas highlights the need for targeted prevention and education programmes, essential for reducing the incidence and severity of snakebites in NEA.