Snakebite Envenomation in Eastern India: Epidemiological Burden and Climatic Predictors from Dhanbad, 2019–2023

Abstract Background: Snakebite envenomation is a neglected tropical disease and a major public health challenge in India. This study evaluates individual clinical characteristics and aggregate climatic correlates of snakebite incidence in Dhanbad, eastern India. Methods: Hospital admission records from 2019 to 2023 ( N = 1,618) were evaluated alongside regional climate data. We applied a two-strata approach, combining an individual-level demographic review with an aggregate-level ecological time-series analysis. An exploratory multivariable ordinary least squares linear regression model evaluated independent concurrent associations between climatic variables and monthly snakebite counts. Results: Snakebite incidence showed strong positive macro-correlations with temperature (r = 0.58) and rainfall (r = 0.52). Within the multivariable regression model, average temperature emerged as the sole evaluated climatic variable with a significant independent association (β = +2.36, P = 0.036), while rainfall and humidity did not reach statistical significance in this exploratory, underpowered framework. Conclusion: Aggregate climatic trends, particularly higher temperatures, are associated with increased monthly snakebite counts in this exploratory setting, though localized interpretations must be cautioned against the risk of ecological fallacy. These preliminary findings indicate that monitoring baseline meteorological trends could support regional healthcare resource planning, provided future prospective models integrate species-specific data and socioecological predictors.