SUBMANDIBULAR SNAKEBITE IN A THREE-YEAR-OLD KENYAN CHILD: A CASE REPORT AND REVIEW OF THE LITERATURE

Abstract

Background: Snakebite envenoming is a largely underreported and
undertreated Category A neglected tropical disease mainly found in poor rural areas. Snakebites in children under the age of five years are rare, as are bites in the head and neck region.
Clinical Findings and Diagnosis: A three-year-old child from Kitui County,
Kenya, presented with panfacial swelling after sustaining a snakebite in the left submandibular region and was diagnosed with snakebite envenoming. Interventions and Outcomes: She was treated with polyvalent antivenom, hydrocortisone, and supportive care in paediatric ICU. She recovered fully and was discharged after one week.
Conclusion: This case is unique because of the patient’s age, the anatomical site and the time of the attack. It highlights the One Health challenges faced by many rural African populations where there is conflict between human health, wildlife, and the environment.