IntroductionSnake-bites are not sys

Introduction
Snake-bites are not systematically reported in most
countries. Moreover, very few countries possess a
reliable epidemiological reporting system capable
of providing precise data on snake-bites. Instead, scientific reports and publications have to be used to assess the magnitude of the problem posed by snake- bites. The data thus obtained are generally more precise and reliable but often cover limited geo- graphical areas or deal with special aspects. From these data, and taking into account the activities practised by a given population and the proportion living in rural zones, estimates have been made of the number of snake-bites, their severity, and mor- tality due to envenomations. These evaluations are summarized in this article,by region. The values are speculative,but minimal ,and highlight the necessity of performing more precise investigations.
As discussed below, two methods can be used to estimate the incidence (total number of snake- bites), morbidity (number of envenomations), case fatality rate (number of deaths among envenomed people),and mortality from snake-bites (number of deaths due to envenomation among the general population).