Snakebites in the Pampa biome, southwest of Rio Grande do Sul state, Brazil

Abstract

The records of accidents with venomous animals are the main sources of information to establish prevention strategies of ophidian accidents in Brazil. We conducted an epidemiological study of snakebites in Pampa region named “Campanha Gaúcha”, located in southwest Rio Grande do Sul state, southern Brazil. We use data from seven years of snakebite. In total, 241 records of accidents caused by snakes were analyzed and used to discuss variables related to the causative agent of the accident, the site of the accident, the characteristics of the victims and the treatment applied. The majority of reported cases corresponded to accidents with snakes of the genus Bothrops (80%). The location with the highest incidence was São Gabriel city (23%). Most of the accidents occurred in rural area (75%), with rural male workers (32%) aged between 15 and 45 years (50%). The lower limbs were the most affected (59%). The highest occurrence of cases was observed in January and March. The anti-venom used (7.13 ampoules/patient) was not compatible with the fact that most cases are considered mild accidents (47%). All accidents were cured without major complications. The records require greater precision, especially regarding the species that cause the accidents and the place of incident. The imprecision or lack of such information may compromise understanding of the epidemiology of these events, hindering possible preventive actions.