Scorpion envenomations and their medical importance in Namibia have been underreported and neglected. Namibia is the home for several Parabuthus Pocock, 1890 (Buthidae) species, a genus known for hosting several species of medical importance.
Francois Theart and co-workers recently published an article with updated information about scorpionism in Namibia. They conclude that scorpions are a health concern in this country and especially the species Parabuthus granulatus (Ehrenberg, 1831), P. villosus (Peters, 1862), kraepelini Werner, 1902 and P. schlechteri Purcell, 1899 can cause death and serious morbidity. No antivenom is available. More research is necessary to understand more about the situation and to develop measures to improve prevention and treatment.
Abstract:
Namibia harbours a rich diversity of scorpions, including seventeen species of the highly venomous genus Parabuthus, although the biology and medical relevance of most species are poorly documented. Severe envenoming is caused by at least P. granulatus, P. villosus, P. kraepelini and P. schlechteri, which are considered to be of particular importance. Data on epidemiology, venom composition and variation, and clinical effects remain scarce. A lack of effective antivenom and long distances to hospitals in rural areas complicate clinical management and compromise patient outcomes.
Reference:
Theart F, Buys C, Lagneau S, Berg P. Scorpion envenoming by Parabuthus is a public health concern in Namibia. Toxicon. 2025;270:108934. [Subscription required for full text]
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