Amine Tahraoui: Significant Decrease in Deaths from Scorpion Stings and Snake Bites in Morocco Thanks to a Comprehensive National Strategy
The Minister of Health and Social Protection, Amine Tahraoui, revealed that Morocco records approximately 25,000 cases of scorpion stings annually, of which 2,500 are classified as actual poisoning. More than 22,500 cases are successfully managed within health institutions. He noted that the mortality rate resulting from these stings has declined from 2.37% in 1999 to 0.14% in 2023.
In a statement delivered on his behalf by the ministry’s Secretary General, Abdel Karim Mezziane Belafkih, during a study day organized by the ministry, Tahraoui explained that the Moroccan Center for Poison Control and Pharmacovigilance registers about 250 snake bite cases each year, with the associated mortality rate dropping from 7.2% in 2012 to 1.9% in 2024.
The minister indicated that there were 23 deaths due to scorpion stings in 2023, compared to 53 cases in 2016, while snake bites typically result in about 20 deaths annually.
Tahraoui confirmed that the Kingdom provides the “Inoserp MENA” antivenom for snake bites, which is distributed annually to high-risk areas. Regarding scorpion stings, he clarified that the antivenom has been removed from the national treatment protocol due to proven ineffectiveness and the potential for severe complications, such as allergic shock.
He highlighted that the national strategy for combating poisoning, launched in 1999 and strengthened in 2013, has achieved tangible results, particularly in reducing the mortality rate. This was accomplished through a multi-faceted approach that includes awareness campaigns, improved medical care, training of health staff, provision of antivenoms and medical supplies, as well as distributing specific treatment kits for scorpion stings.
In terms of biodiversity, Tahraoui explained that Morocco is home to about 30 species of snakes, including 8 venomous and dangerous types from the cobra and viper families, such as the horned viper and the Mauritanian viper. Approximately 50 species of scorpions have been identified, 20 of which are venomous.
As part of preventive measures, the ministry announced the acquisition of over 1,200 treatment units specifically for scorpion stings and 600 vials of the snake antivenom, distributed across various regions and university hospitals, as part of a proactive plan to address these poisonings.
Tahraoui noted that cases of poisoning are particularly concentrated in the Marrakech-Safi, Souss-Massa, Béni Mellal-Khénifra, Drâa-Tafilalet, and Casablanca-Settat regions. He pointed out that children under the age of 15 are the most vulnerable to fatal outcomes due to their smaller body size and lower resistance to toxins.
The minister indicated that 40% of scorpion stings occur within homes, primarily affecting the hands (50%) and feet (45%). Most snake bites are associated with agricultural activities and affect males 59% of the time, particularly during the period from April to September.
Tahraoui stressed the importance of continuous training for health staff, mentioning that the ministry has organized training sessions to enhance their abilities in classifying and managing poisoning cases according to their severity. A 24/7 medical response system has been activated under the supervision of specialists in toxicology to direct cases and ensure quick and effective intervention.
The minister concluded by reaffirming the ministry’s ongoing efforts to reduce the mortality rate and achieve the goal of “zero deaths,” despite challenges related to access to healthcare services in some areas and the prevalence of ineffective traditional practices.
