Snakebites continue to pose a serious public health threat in Kenya, with thousands of cases reported annually, many resulting in death or long-term complications. Experts estimate that over 25,000 snakebites occur each year in the country, though most go unreported. On average, more than 4,000 people die from snakebites annually, while around 7,000 others suffer paralysis or severe health issues, including amputations and permanent disabilities.
Despite the grave statistics, awareness and proper response to snakebites remain limited. Educational initiatives are working to change this by informing communities about snakebite prevention, identification of venomous species, and proper first aid measures. Individuals are encouraged not to kill snakes but to understand their role in ecosystems. Snakes help control rodent populations, contributing to the overall environmental balance.
Kenya is home to 143 snake species, with approximately 75% being non-lethal to humans. Most bites come from species like the puff adder, a nocturnal snake widely found across the continent. The risk increases in rural and agricultural areas, especially among children and farmworkers, who are often most vulnerable due to their frequent outdoor activity and limited access to medical care.
As forests are cleared for farming and development, and climate patterns shift, snakes are increasingly appearing in new areas, including urban and residential zones. For example, the brown spitting cobra, previously uncommon in regions like Nanyuki, is now being reported. Even Nairobi has seen a rise in snake sightings in estates and homes.
Experts recommend several precautions to reduce the risk of snakebites: always wear closed shoes when walking outdoors at night, keep surroundings clean and free from overgrown vegetation, avoid inserting hands into holes or rock crevices, and use mosquito nets and raised beds when sleeping. Water sources and farm animals should be located at a safe distance from living areas to avoid attracting snakes seeking food or hydration.
If bitten, the victim should remain calm and immobile to slow venom spread and seek medical help immediately. Tourniquets should be avoided as they can worsen tissue damage. Prevention efforts also emphasize eliminating snake food sources like rodents, which often attract snakes into homes.
Kenya has recently joined regional and global efforts to address snakebite envenoming, including the Africa Snakebite Alliance and the Global Snake Task Force. These partnerships aim to promote research, increase access to antivenom, and implement national policies that prioritize snakebite prevention and response. Addressing the issue requires collaboration across health, environmental, and community sectors to reduce the toll of snakebites on lives and livelihoods.
