Revue narrative des stratégies de prise en charge des morsures de serpent en Afrique de l’Ouest francophone
Year: 2026
Type: review
Abstract: Introduction: In West Africa, snakebite envenomation is an underestimated public health problem, particularly in rural areas where access to care is limited and traditional practices are common. Due to disparities in access to care and treatment, as well as a lack of standardized protocols, this narrative review aims to synthesize strategies for managing snakebites in West Africa according to specific circumstances. Materials and methods: A qualitative narrative review was conducted using scientific publications and reports published between 1997 and 2023. Study selection was based on strict inclusion criteria focusing on treatment modalities in certain French-speaking West African countries. Results: The management of snakebite envenomation is hindered by reliance on traditional healers and limited access to modern care, including expensive antivenoms, irregular supplies, and non-standardized protocols. Discussion/Conclusion: The management of snakebites in West Africa is inconsistent and generally inadequate. The indirect costs to victims are largely overlooked. Improving access to appropriate antivenoms, training healthcare professionals, establishing structured surveillance systems, and engaging communities in awareness campaigns tailored to each local context are essential.
Language: French
Subfield: Toxicology
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7221197503