Perfil dos acidentes ofídicos notificados na região do Curimataú Paraibano.

Abstract

The snake bites represent a serious public health problem in Brazil. Although the production and distribution of ophidian serums are relatively stabilized, the notification of accidents is still deficient in several regions of the country, especially in the Northeast. In the state of Paraiba, epidemiological data are scarce, probably due to underreporting and the difficulty of access to health services. Considering this context, this study aims to carry out an exploratory and descriptive of the clinical and epidemiological aspects of patients victims of snakebites in the region of Paraiba Curimataú, from January 2007 to December 2010. We analyzed 223 reporting forms provided by the 3th and 4th Management of Health of the state of Paraiba. The highest incidence of accidents was in the municipalities of Picuí and Cuite. The data revealed that most accidents occurred in rural areas. The highest incidence of attacks on individuals were male, farmer, aged 50 years. The highest incidence of accidents was in the months of higher rainfall, suggesting a marked seasonality in accidents. The genus Bothrops spp. had the highest number of cases, and the feet the body region most affected. Most of the victims received medical care within 1 to 3 hours after the accident. The most prevalent clinical manifestations were pain, swelling and bruising. Most accidents were classified as mild, but there have been some mild cases. The results of this study are partially in accordance with the epidemiological found in the literature. In addition, should provide information that can assist public health agencies in its distribution policy snakebite serum, as well as improve care for victims of snake bites.