SPATIAL AUTOCORRELATION OF SNAKEBITES IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.56238/revgeov16n5-084Keywords:
Poisoning, Neglected Tropical Disease, Risk, Prevalence, Moran's IndexAbstract
Snake bites are a global public health problem, with approximately 2.7 million cases annually. In Brazil, reporting snake bites is mandatory, with around 29,000 cases recorded each year, and antivenom is available free of charge in the public health system. In the city of Rio de Janeiro, there are around 150 reports annually. Knowing the spatial distribution of these accidents is essential for the efficient planning and allocation of antivenom. This study aimed to analyze the spatial autocorrelation of snake bites in the city of Rio de Janeiro between 2007 and 2017. This is an observational, cross-sectional study with data from SINAN. The highest prevalence rates were concentrated in the West Zone, an area where the two reference units for treating poisoning are located. The Moran index was 0.46, with high statistical significance (p < 0.001), indicating positive spatial autocorrelation and dependence between neighborhoods. The Moran’s Local Index (LISA) confirmed the West Zone as the area with the highest risk of incidence. The most affected neighborhoods showed population growth and an increase in occupied households, suggesting intense territorial expansion. The genus Bothrops spp was responsible for most cases of poisoning. About half of the victims received care within the ideal time frame for treatment, demonstrating that, although access to specialized care exists, there are still challenges in reducing response time and preventing cases.
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