Viperidae snakebites in Ecuador: A review of epidemiological and ecological aspects. (September 2020) - Ochoa-Avilés, Angélica
Abstract: Snakebite envenoming is a neglected disease of public health concern. Most snakebite accidents occur in developing countries. In Ecuador, 17 viper species are responsible for 99% of official accidents, and ten species are in critical conservation states. This report analyzes the snakebite incident cases and mortality rates in Ecuador between 2014 and 2019. The data obtained from the national surveillance system suggests that the incidence and mortality rates remained constant. The geographic region with the highest incidence rates is the Amazonian region. National policies are urgently needed to prevent snakebite accidents and to protect snakes in danger of extinction. Highlights: Snakebite national incidence (2014–2019): 7.7–11.0 cases/100.000 inhabitants/year. Mortality national incidence (2014–2019): 0.03–0.10 deaths/100.000 inhabitants/year. 1400–1800 snakebites caused by Bothrops asper, Bothrops atrox and Lachesis muta . Ten species of the Viperidae family in Ecuador are critically endangered.