Improving ecological and epidemiological data on snakebite envenoming

As for many NTDs, control of snakebite envenoming is hindered by poor-quality epidemiological data and equally poor investment in diagnostic, interventional or analytical tools. Momentum to launch and expand effective control strategies relies on accurate statistical measurement to assess progress towards benchmarks and the accomplishment of goals and objectives. Building the capacity to collect, collate and interpret data in countries, and within regions with shared snake faunas, will improve our knowledge and help to target solutions.

A more dynamic understanding of the ecology, distribution and ecological determinants of venomous snakes will also greatly enhance control. The diversity of snake species across all environmental niches, and the differences in behaviour that influence the risk of snakebite envenoming even between closely related species, must also be understood. Developing the capacity to interpret the impact of ecological, behavioural and environmental parameters can provide new tools for reducing contact between humans and snakes and preventing the toll of snakebite envenoming on communities.