Trauma and envenoming caused by stingrays and other fish in a fishing community in Pontal do Paranapanema, state of São Paulo, Brazil: epidemiology, clinical aspects, and therapeutic and preventive measures

Abstract

Introduction: Accidents caused by fish are common in inland fishing communities in Brazil, being work-related injuries in the majority of cases. These populations have no information on the mechanisms of trauma or envenoming. Methods: Through a questionnaire administered to fishermen, we obtained clinical and epidemiological data on accidents in Rosana, Pontal do Paranapanema, State of São Paulo, Brazil. These data were analyzed and converted into an easily understood prevention and treatment program for the colony. Results: Thirty-nine fishermen replied to the survey. All of the patients had been hurt by fish. Of those mentioned, the yellow catfish (Pimelodus maculatus) was the main fish species associated with injuries, but others also caused trauma to the fishermen. Six fishermen had been envenomed by stingrays. Pain and ulcers were the main symptoms and were described as intolerable. Approximately half of those injured were treated using traditional folk remedies. Conclusions: The fishermen suffered multiple accidents with catfish, which are venomous and cause intense pain, as well as trauma due to other fish, such as surubins, traíras, freshwater croakers, and piranhas. Approximately 16% of those interviewed presented with envenomation from stingrays. Our data and previous experience in the area led to the creation of a pamphlet with clear language that can effectively help fishermen in the region, an area in need of health services and disease prevention. This initiative also applies to the whole La Plata River basin, which has similar fauna.

The skin health of fishermen in Guanabara Bay, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

“…For the interviews, a semi‐structured questionnaire was used for the analysis, based on previous studies, which included questions about issues related to socioeconomic profile, season of year and the fishing practice schedule, use of sunscreen, history of skin lesions and/or poisoning related to the practice of fishing, body site where the injury occurred, causes, symptoms and treatments of injuries and/or poisoning, number of accidents, and absenteeism.…”

“…Daily activities in fishing communities expose fishermen to risks of accidents and diseases . Injuries in the marine environments are caused by a wide variety of animals, fishing materials, and sharps .…”

“…Daily activities in fishing communities expose fishermen to risks of accidents and diseases . Injuries in the marine environments are caused by a wide variety of animals, fishing materials, and sharps . Many of the tidal and deep water animals of temperate and tropical waters are potentially dangerous and may be responsible for accidents involving humans .…”

“…Injuries in the marine environments are caused by a wide variety of animals, fishing materials, and sharps . Many of the tidal and deep water animals of temperate and tropical waters are potentially dangerous and may be responsible for accidents involving humans . Due to the great influx of beach‐goers and the increase in commercial and sport fishing, besides other activities, such as scuba diving and deep sea fishing, accidents involving aquatic animals have increased year after year …”

“…Injuries and poisoning in professional fishermen are common and poorly studied . Data collection of fishing activity is essential as a basis for any policy to support fishing, organization of the sector, and quantification of any losses resulting from fishing accidents or environmental hazards.…”