Mapping Snakebite Risk in Ghana and Rwanda

Launched by LIVERPOOL SCHOOL OF TROPICAL MEDICINE · Jan 29, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

The clinical trial titled "Mapping Snakebite Risk in Ghana and Rwanda" aims to understand how often snakebites occur and where they are most likely to happen in these two countries. Snakebites are a serious health issue, causing many deaths and injuries each year, especially in tropical regions. This study will gather information from hospitals and conduct surveys in neighborhoods to learn about people's experiences with snakebites. By using GPS technology, researchers will create maps that show which areas are at the highest risk for snakebites. These maps will help ensure that life-saving snakebite treatments, known as antivenoms, are available where they are needed most.

To participate in this study, households in selected areas will be invited to take part, regardless of the age or gender of the household head. If the head of the household is not available, another adult can respond on their behalf. Those who have experienced a snakebite will be asked to share their experiences through a questionnaire, with help from an adult if needed. It's important to note that participation is voluntary, and if anyone doesn’t want to take part, they don’t have to. The information gathered will help health officials better understand snakebite risks and improve prevention and treatment efforts in Ghana and Rwanda.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• * Household Screening Questionnaire:
• • o Heads of household from all selected households will be invited to participate, regardless of age or sex. If the head of household is absent, another adult from the household who can report on behalf of all household members will be invited to be interviewed.
• * Snakebite Details Questionnaire:
• • All household members identified with a history of snakebite will be invited to complete this questionnaire, with the assistance/in the presence of a responsible adult if the participant is a minor. If the household member is deceased, a responsible adult from the household will be asked to complete the questionnaire as far as possible.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Household Screening Questionnaire
• • Households where the household head/a responsible adult is not present at first visit or revisit.
• • Households where the household head/responsible adult is unable or unwilling to give consent.
• • Snakebite Details Questionnaire
• • Where the snakebite victim is an adult and is present: the victim is unwilling to participate
• • Where the snakebite victim is an adult and is not present: there is no responsible adult who is able to complete the questionnaire on the behalf of the victim
• • Where the snakebite victim is a minor: there is no responsible adult who is able or willing to provide consent to be interviewed or support the child to complete the questionnaire.