EPIDEMIOLOGY OF SCORPION STINGS IN THE STATE OF MATO GROSSO DO SUL, BRAZIL (2012-2022)

Abstract

Scorpionism represents a significant public health issue in Brazil, particularly in urban environments, and has shown a marked increase in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul, where long-term epidemiological investigations remain limited. This study aimed to analyze the epidemiological profile of scorpion sting accidents reported in the state between 2012-2022, based on secondary data obtained from the Notifiable Diseases Information System (SINAN), encompassing  temporal and clinical variables. During the study period, a total of 21,017 cases were recorded, with a progressive increase in notifications over time. A slight predominance of female individuals was observed, along with a higher concentration of cases among the economically active population and a seasonal pattern characterized by increased occurrence during the warmer months of the year. Most accidents were classified as mild, with a consistently low proportion of severe cases and a case fatality rate below 1% throughout the historical series. Additionally, an increase in the proportion of patients receiving medical care within one hour after the accident was identified, suggesting improved timely access to health services. These findings indicate that, despite the rising incidence of scorpionism in Mato Grosso do Sul, clinical severity remains limited, underscoring the importance of continuous epidemiological surveillance, improvements in the quality of reporting systems, and the implementation of preventive strategies targeted at the most vulnerable population groups.