Snakebite envenoming: A systematic review and meta-analysis of global morbidity and mortality

Abstract

Background Snakebite envenoming represents a significant and often neglected public health challenge, particularly in rural communities across tropical and subtropical regions. An estimated 1.2– 5.5 million people are envenomed by snakebites annually. More than 125,000 of these bites are fatal, and 3–4 times as many results in disability/disfigurement. Despite its prevalence, collecting accurate epidemiological data on snakebite is challenging. This systematic review and meta-analysis collates global epidemiology data on snakebite morbidity and mortality. Methods Medline, Embase, Cochrane and CINAHL Plus databases were searched for articles published between 2001–2022. Pooled incidence and m..