Epidemiology of venomous snake bites in El Salvador from 2011 to 2022

Abstract

Introduction. According to the World Health Organization, snake bites cause between 81 000 and 138 000 deaths per year worldwide, as well as amputations and permanent disabilities. In El Salvador, 1472 cases were reported in the last twelve years. Objective. Characterize the epidemiological trends of venomous snakebites in El Salvador from 2011 to 2022. Methodology. This descriptive cross-sectional study analyzed the records of snakebites between 2011 and 2022 from the National Epidemiological Surveillance System. The database was reviewed, and pivot tables were worked to calculate frequencies. Continuous quantitative variables were evaluated with the Anderson-Darling normality test, and measures of central tendency and dispersion were used. Progressive tone maps were also constructed. Results. During the study period, 1472 cases of venomous snake bites were registered in El Salvador. Males accounted for 61.1% of the cases, with a maleto-male ratio 2:1; more than 83% of the bites occurred in rural areas. Cases were distributed throughout the year but were concentrated between May and September, coinciding with the rainy season. The highest incidence was observed in the 30-39 years age group. Conclusion. Most venomous snake bites occur between May and October, affecting mainly young men in rural areas, especially in the 30-39 age group, with higher incidence in the western part of the country.