Animal Bites and Stings in a University Health Service: A 10-Year Study on Cases, Treatment, and Outcomes
Imuwahen Anthonia Mbarie
University of Benin Health Services, Benin City, Nigeria and Institute of Child Health, University of Benin, Benin City, Nigeria.
Moses Temidayo Abiodun *
Department of Child Health, School of Medicine, University of Benin, Benin City, Nigeria and Paediatric Emergency Division, University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Benin City, Nigeria.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Introduction: Animal bites and stings constitute a significant environmental emergency worldwide. It involves an exposure to toxin from a venomous source, mainly snake bites and insect stings.
Objective: To evaluate the spectrum, clinical profile and factors influencing the outcome of patients with animal bites and stings seen in our University Health Service.
Methodology: Using a retrospective design, eligible patients were purposively recruited. Data collection was done using a structured form comprising sections on each participant’s baseline information, clinical history of bite/sting, severity of envenomation, treatments and outcomes. The data were extracted from patients’ files over a ten-year period. Descriptive and inferential analyses were done; p <0.05 was considered significant.
Results: A total of 15,290 patients were admitted during the study period. Thirty-nine (0.26%) persons with bites and stings were recruited; their mean (SD) age was 28.8(13.2) years. On further analysis of 30 participants, snake bites were the commonest, 22(73.2%); followed by scorpion stings 3 (10.0%). Dog bites 2 (6.7%) and cat bite 1 (3.3%) were less common. Local site effects that frequently occurred were swelling, 11(36.7%) and bleeding, 7(23.3%). Most bites or stings were not provoked, as reported by 28(93.3%) of participants. Thirteen (43.3%) participants had moderate envenomation while 12(40.0%) were severe. Treatments included anti-venom infusions and tetanus toxoid injection. Twenty (66.7%) participants were referred. Demographic factors did not influence the outcome of participants (p>0.05).
Conclusion: Animal bites and stings occurs in University community with variable severity. There is a need for health education on prevention and appropriate first aid care. Also, an enhanced capacity for envenomation treatment in University Health Services is desirable.
Keywords: Animal bites, insect sting, treatment, outcome, university community