Shahroud University of Medical siences Shahroud Journal of Medical Sciences 2423-6594 Epidemiology of Scorpion Stings in Southern Iran (Area under the Coverage of Iranshahr University of Medical Sciences) between 2020 and 2022Hekmatollah Khoubfekr1, Sanaullah Reisizadeh1, Abbas Balouchi2,3, Farzaneh Faraji Shahrivar2,4* eng Hekmatollah Khoubfekr The Disease Control Center, Vice-Chancellor of Health, Iranshahr University of Medical Sciences, Iranshahr, Iran. . Hekmatollah.1364@gmail.com Sanaullah Reisizadeh Tropical and Communicable Diseases Research Center, Iranshahr University of Medical Sciences, Iranshahr, Iran. sraisizadeh@gmial.com Abbas Balouchi Department of Nursing, School of Medicine, Iranshahr University of Medical Sciences, Iranshahr, Iran and Tropical and Communicable Diseases Research Center, Iranshahr University of Medical Sciences, Iranshahr, Iran. Abbasbalouche1990@gmail.com Farzaneh Faraji Shahrivar Tropical and Communicable Diseases Research Center, Iranshahr University of Medical Sciences, Iranshahr, Iran and Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Iranshahr University of Medical Sciences, Iranshahr, Iran. faraji_farzaneh@yahoo.com 2025 04 18 2025 10 14 Background: Scorpion envenomation remains a major public health problem in tropical and subtropical regions, particularly in southern Iran. The southeastern provinces, including Sistan and Baluchestan, provide favorable ecological conditions for scorpion proliferation. This study aimed to describe the epidemiological characteristics and outcomes of scorpion sting cases recorded in the catchment area of Iranshahr University of Medical Sciences. Methods: A retrospective descriptive-analytical study was conducted on all medical records of scorpion sting cases registered in health centers and hospital emergency departments across 12 counties affiliated with Iranshahr University of Medical Sciences between March 21, 2020, and March 20, 2022. Data included demographics, occupation, residence, sting location, temporal distribution, treatment received, and clinical outcomes. Results: During the two-year period, 12,307 scorpion sting cases were recorded, with a period prevalence of 319 per 100,000 population. Females (56.2%) and housewives (40.2%) were disproportionately affected. Most cases occurred in rural areas (78.5%) and during summer months, peaking between 10 PM and 2 AM. The hands and feet were the most common sting sites (77.6%). Antivenom was administered in 88.5% of cases, and the case fatality rate was 0.2% (21 deaths). Mortality was significantly associated with delayed hospitalization and lack of timely antivenom administration. Conclusions: Scorpion stings represent a continuing health challenge in southeastern Iran, particularly among rural women. Strengthening preventive education, ensuring timely access to antivenom, and improving clinical management protocols are essential to reduce morbidity and mortality in this endemic region.