Epidemiologic Status of Scorpion Sting in Qom, Iran 2004-2013

Background & Aims of the Study: In the tropical regions of Iran, scorpionism is one of the important medical and public concerns. Poisoning with scorpion sting is one of the life threatening medical emergencies especially in individuals who are less than 6 years; knowing about its epidemiologic aspects might lead to exploit appropriate preventive methods. Therefore, for this purpose, the epidemiologic status of scorpion sting in Qom province of Iran was studied during 2004–2013. Materials & Methods: This research is a descriptive-cross sectional study which has been done in all urban and rural areas of Qom province during 2004-2013 and all cases that referred to the one hospital, were assessed, examined, treated, followed and finally a questionnaire which is including demographic, epidemiologic and clinical data was completed for the patients. Data were analyzed by SPSS 17. Chi square and Fisher’s exact test were used for the evaluation of the hypothesis. Results: Totally, 395 cases of scorpion sting who were referred during the studied period. Most of them had 10–24 years. Most of them were male (60.25%). The most cases occurred during spring and summer. The stings mainly occurred at night between 22 p.m. and 4 a.m. Hands and foots were the most common organs of scorpion sting. 18.7 % of envenomed cases were due to black scorpion. 74.4 % of cases were from rural and 25.6 % from urban regions. 77.2% of the sufferers, sleep outdoor and on the floor. In 20.5% of cases, were surrounded by timber, dust and building materials. All cases have been received treatment and healed. Conclusions: Based on findings, scorpion sting is considered a public health concerns in Qom province. So, it seems the programs of health education on personal protection to prevent possible damages with scorpions, especially students to be necessary. Also, the villager's should use the proper bed to sleep outdoor before wearing clothes or shoes and before entering the bed to ensure there are no scorpions. People should refuse to keep away timber, dust from residential environments for a long time.