Research question: What is the epidemiological profile of snakebite cases admitted in JIPMER Hospital from 1990-96.
Objectives: To find out the socio-demographic profile of snakebite cases admitted in JIPMER Hospital during 7 years period.
Study design: Retrospective descriptive study of all cases during the study period.
Setting: JIPMER Hospital, Pondicherry.
Subjects: 865 cases of snakebite.
Results: Proportional case rate of snakebite cases increased from 2.9/1000 admissions in 1990 to 5.2/1000 admissions in 1996. About 68% of the cases were males; majority of cases (93.8%) were agricultural workers and labourers. Adults (15-60 years) accounted for 81.8% of cases. About 28% of cases came from a distance of 50 kms and more. About 40% of cases were observed from the period of September to November which coincided with maximum rainfall. About 85% of cases either got relieved or cured and 13.5% experienced mortality.