The East Flanders Public Prosecutor’s Office has issued a warning about the risk of overheating caused by designer drugs, following the recent death of a young woman from the region after using drugs at a festival.
The prosecutor’s office confirmed her death but did not provide specific details. “Recently, a young woman from East Flanders died after experimenting with various drugs at a festival. A judge has been appointed to investigate her death,” stated spokesperson Lisa De Wilde.
A medical examiner has been appointed and toxicology tests are being conducted. “Preliminary findings suggest hyperthermia as a possible cause of death, exacerbated by drug use and heat,” De Wilde noted. “These drugs could include designer drugs, MDMA, cocaine, and amphetamines.”
Hyperthermia can develop unexpectedly and is particularly dangerous due to late detection of symptoms, such as headaches, nausea, confusion, restlessness, or loss of consciousness, by both victims and bystanders. By the time medical help is sought, the body is often already severely affected. In severe cases, hyperthermia can lead to organ failure or death.
