Bushmaster bites in Brazil: Ecological modelling and spatial analysis to improve human health measures

In 2017, the World Health Organization has included ophidian accidents in category A of the list of neglected tropical diseases, i.e. with a high impact on world health and that do not receive the necessary attention. It is fundamental that the combat to this health issue becomes a priority and be developed through the cooperation of different areas of knowledge. Our goals were to identify the potential geographical distribution of Lachesis muta (bushmaster snake) for supporting the planning of the distribution of antivenom in Brazil and mitigate this disease. Occurrence records of the species were taken from scientific collections. The data of antivenom distribution were obtained from the Ministry of Health and State Secretaries of Health. Our results showed climatic suitability for L. muta in 60% of the Brazilian territory, including Amazon and Atlantic Forest Biomes. The highest incidence rates and suitability values were recorded for the North region, which is a priority for mitigate this disease. Our results can reduce unnecessary expense and support the efficient distribution of the antivenom medication. We encourage mapping the importance medical animals for recognize areas of occurrence of neglected diseases to improve human health measures.