It is thought that Booysen, who passed away on her method to healthcare facility, was bitten by a Cape cobra.
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Community activist, Colin Ren said that Booysen and her buddies had actually previously gone to the neighboring Klein Berg River to cool down, and on her return had actually gone to sleep.
“She awakened when she felt that something has actually bitten her on her right-hand man.
“Her mother was the one who rang the bell and drew the attention of the neighbours.
“Further information confirmed that it was a Cape cobra that bit her,” he said.
Rens said the event has actually shocked the neighborhood, stating Booysen was the very first to come down with a snake bite in the Cape Winelands town.
“It is actually stunning and destructive and I can just picture what her friends and family who likewise remain in that location need to go through.
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“The individuals moved from Cape Town to Gouda searching for something much better, however still today they do not have good homes to remain in.
“In addition to that, they are now living in fear after this. I want to caution all our people who are situated in those areas to make sure that during this season of high hot temperatures to be on high alert and do all that is necessary to avoid and prevent the entrance of snakes in their homes,” he said.
Wildlife expert, Brett Glasby said Cape cobra venom is deadly to individuals, however it is treatable.
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“Cape cobras have a powerful neurotoxin. This venom impacts the main nerve system and triggers it to shutdown.
“Cape cobra venom is deadly to individuals however it is treatable.
“It is very important to ensure that the person receives prompt treatment for the symptoms of the venom and then anti-venom as quickly as possible.
“Complications can arise if the person has an allergic reaction to either the venom or the anti-venom,” he said.
“Bites (taking place) while the individual is asleep are rather typical. The snake might go into the bed for heat or while looking for food.
“Most people do not sleep completely still, we all move around in our sleep and movement may be perceived by the snake as a threat, or the person may roll onto the snake. This would then result in a bite,” he said.
Western Cape Department of Health representative, Byron la Hoe said Emergency Medical Services (EMS) paramedics took care of the client who was already in a crucial condition on Sunday.
“They immediately requested paramedic assistance. The ambulance was dispatched at 6.13pm and on arrival at 7.02pm the crew immediately requested paramedic assistance,” he said.
Cape Times
