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🇹🇳 Tunisia /Environment & Climate

Egyptian Cobra in Tunisia: Venom Capable of Killing in Under an Hour

From La Presse · () French

Translated from French, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

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  • A Tunisian environmentalist warned about the extreme danger of the Egyptian cobra, recently sighted in Sidi Bouzid.
  • The snake, known locally as "boufṭira," possesses one of the most potent venoms, capable of causing death within an hour.
  • Experts advise immediate medical attention and specific first aid for bites, including immobility and cleaning the wound.

Habib Delnassi, a secretary-general of the Environmental Observatory Association and a reptile specialist, has issued a stark warning regarding the Egyptian cobra, identified as the serpent recently spotted in Sidi Bouzid, Tunisia. Delnassi described the snake's venom as among the most potent in the animal kingdom, earning it the local moniker "boufṭira," or "king of poisons."

this reptile possesses one of the most powerful venoms in the animal kingdom.

— Habib DelnassiDescribing the Egyptian cobra's venom potency.

Speaking on Diwan Fm, Delnassi detailed the snake's physical characteristics, noting it can reach lengths of 1.30 to 1.60 meters and weigh between 1.5 and 3 kilograms. He emphasized the critical need for rapid medical intervention following a bite, as the venom can rapidly affect the lungs and nervous system.

the king of poisons

— Habib DelnassiReferring to the Egyptian cobra due to its venom's toxicity.

In the event of a bite, Delnassi advised victims to remain still and calm, avoid sudden movements, and clean the affected area with soap and water. Removing tight items like rings or bracelets is also recommended. He stressed that without prompt medical treatment, a bite from this cobra could be fatal within 30 minutes to an hour.

stay immobile and calm, avoid any sudden movement, clean the affected area with soap and water and remove any tight object, such as rings or bracelets.

— Habib DelnassiRecommending first aid measures for a snakebite.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by La Presse in French. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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