PHUKET, THAILAND – Authorities warned tourists on Racha Yai to avoid touching washed‑up moon jellyfish in Siam Bay after several were found along the shore.
Warning issued after jellyfish found in Siam Bay
Around 20 to 30 jellyfish were discovered floating near the surface and washed up along the beach at Siam Bay on Racha Yai, off Phuket. Officials then urged beachgoers and tourists not to touch the animals and to avoid direct contact.
The advisory was described as a preventive step to reduce health risks for both residents and visitors, particularly during the holiday period. Authorities emphasized that the situation did not require panic but did call for caution.
Report to marine research centre
The warning was published after the Upper Andaman Marine and Coastal Resources Research Centre was notified by the management unit responsible for the protected area around the Racha Islands. Officials framed the alert as a precautionary measure for public safety.
They underlined that the focus was on informing the public rather than closing the beach. Visitors were encouraged to stay attentive to signs and instructions from local staff.
Which jellyfish species was identified?
The washed‑up animals were identified as moon jellyfish (Aurelia sp.), a commonly occurring jellyfish species. According to authorities, their venom was considered mild and not life‑threatening, but contact could still lead to discomfort.
Officials stressed that even non‑fatal stings could spoil a holiday and should therefore be avoided. They advised keeping a safe distance from any jellyfish spotted in the water or on the sand.
What symptoms can occur?
Although the sting was not classified as deadly, it could cause red rashes, itching and skin irritation. Particularly sensitive individuals could react more strongly.
Because of this, authorities recommended not touching the animals under any circumstances.
“Even if the jellyfish are not considered deadly, contact can cause unpleasant symptoms, so they should not be handled.”
said local officials, according to the report.
How to behave on the beach: stay calm, keep your distance
Officers called on visitors not to panic but to avoid touching jellyfish in the water or on the beach. Anyone noticing unusual symptoms after contact was advised to seek first aid and medical attention immediately.
They added that remaining calm would help avoid further accidents in the surf zone. Beachgoers were told to supervise children closely near the shoreline.
First aid after jellyfish contact: official advice
Those affected were told to leave the water immediately to reduce the risk of drowning in the event of a strong allergic reaction. Authorities recommended pouring vinegar over the affected area; if no vinegar was available, the area should be rinsed with sea water, not fresh water.
The wound should not be rubbed or touched with bare hands, as stinging cells could still be present on the skin. Even in the absence of symptoms or with only mild signs, the person should be observed for at least one hour, since allergic reactions could be delayed.
When it becomes dangerous: emergency call and resuscitation
In cases of severe symptoms such as wheezing or difficulty breathing, those affected should call the emergency medical service on 1669 and be taken to hospital as quickly as possible. If the person became unconscious or went into cardiac arrest, CPR should begin immediately, including chest compressions and rescue breaths.
Authorities reiterated that prompt action in serious cases could be lifesaving. They encouraged visitors to familiarise themselves with basic resuscitation techniques when spending time at the beach.