[Global incidence of snake and scorpion envenoming]

Abstract

Snakebites and the scorpion stings constitute a neglected public health problem, first because their incidence is poorly known and, second, because low income populations are involved. Accidents of envenoming are still regarded as inevitable, leading to limitations of their management. A better knowledge of the incidence and severity of the envenoming should result in a better control. Antivenoms are well tolerated, due to high purification of immunoglobulin, and became the most effective treatment. But they remain inaccessible to the populations of underdeveloped countries because of its high cost but also logistic difficulties. WHO has made recommendations to standardize the manufacture of the antivenoms and facilitate their diffusion where required.