SNAKE-VENOM ANTIBODIES IN ECUADORIAN INDIANS

  • 1 January 1981
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 84  (5) , 199-202
Abstract
Serum samples from 223 Waorani Indians, a tribe in eastern Ecuador, were investigated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for antibodies to snake venom; 78% were positive, confirming the highest incidence and mortality from snake bite poisoning yet recorded in the world. Most samples were positive for > 1 venom antibody. Antibodies were found to venoms of Bothrops viper in 60% of positive cases, Micrurus coral snake in 21% and bushmaster, Lachesis muta, in 18%. Further studies are needed to determine whether high venom-antibody levels afford protection against further snake envenoming.