Injuries caused by aquatic animals in Brazil: an analysis of the data present in the information system for notifiable diseases

Abstract

Introduction:We present a review of injuries in humans caused by aquatic animals in Brazil using the Information System for Notifi able Diseases [Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notifi cação (SINAN)] database. Methods: A descriptive and retrospective epidemiological study was conducted from 2007 to 2013. Results: A total of 4,118 accidents were recorded. Of these accidents, 88.7% (3,651) were caused by venomous species, and 11.3% (467) were caused by poisonous, traumatic or unidentifi ed aquatic animals. Most of the events were injuries by stingrays (69%) and jellyfi sh (13.1%). The North region was responsible for the majority of reports (66.2%), with a signifi cant emphasis on accidents caused by freshwater stingrays (92.2% or 2,317 cases). In the South region, the region with the second highest number of records (15.7%), jellyfi sh caused the majority of accidents (83.7% or 452 cases). The Northeastern region, with 12.5% of the records, was notable because almost all accidents were caused by toadfi sh (95.6% or 174 cases). Conclusions: Although a comparison of different databases has not been performed, the data presented in this study, compared to local and regional surveys, raises the hypothesis of underreporting of accidents. As the SINAN is the offi cial system for the notifi cation of accidents by venomous animals in Brazil, it is imperative that its operation be reviewed and improved, given that effective measures to prevent accidents by venomous animals depend on a reliable database and the ability to accurately report the true conditions.

Delayed healthcare and secondary infections following freshwater stingray injuries: risk factors for a poorly understood health issue in the Amazon

“…Both traumatic and toxic components are involved in stingray injuries from marine or freshwater stingray punctures, and are common in coastal regions globally 1,2 . In Brazil, from 2007 to 2013, most of the 4,118 injuries from aquatic animals were due to stingrays (69%) in marine and freshwater environments 3 . Freshwater stingray injuries are common in the Brazilian Amazon, representing 88.4% of aquatic animal injuries reported from this region 3 .…”

“…In Brazil, from 2007 to 2013, most of the 4,118 injuries from aquatic animals were due to stingrays (69%) in marine and freshwater environments 3 . Freshwater stingray injuries are common in the Brazilian Amazon, representing 88.4% of aquatic animal injuries reported from this region 3 . The number of cases detected officially in the Amazon is likely to be considerably lower than the actual number, as a result of underreporting, given the difficulties faced by riverine and indigenous populations living in remote areas to reach health centers.…”

An efficient protocol for avoid sequelae over stingray sting injury

“…4 Frequently, the injuries are compounded because the injured individual is not given proper first aids and does not seek medical help for appropriated care. 5 Thus, the total remission of symptoms can take months. The scientific literature and medical records describes many complex cases.…”

A review on the Scorpaena plumieri fish venom and its bioactive compounds

“…And even if accidents involving S. plumieri are — at least according to the official reports made to the Notifiable Diseases Information System (SINAN) — somewhat rare when compared to other venomous aquatic species found in Brazil, the potential severity of the injuries caused by these stings justifies the need for a thorough investigation of these cases [19]. …”