INTRODUCTION:
This communication describes a retrospective study of the epidemiology of snakebite cases that were recorded from 2007 to 2012 in the State of Piauí, northeastern Brazil.
METHODS:
Data were collected from the Injury Notification Information System database of the State of Piauí's Health Department.
RESULTS:
A total of 1,528 cases were identified. The cases occurred most frequently in rural areas between January and July. Victims were predominantly male farmers, and were typically 30-39 years old. Most victims were bitten on the foot, and received medical assistance within 1-3h after being bitten.
CONCLUSIONS:
The epidemiological profile of snakebites in the State of Piauí is similar to that in all of Brazil.
Epidemiology; Human envenomation; Snakes.