Jellyfish in Phuket: their varieties and first aid when encountering them
Jellyfish in Phuket is an important topic to consider when planning a holiday to this popular resort. The waters of the Andaman Sea are generally safe for swimming, but there are certain seasons when the likelihood of encountering jellyfish increases. Here is some key information to help you better prepare.
What kind of jellyfish are found off the coast of Phuket?
Box jellyfish:
- The most dangerous of the jellyfish that live in tropical waters. Their venom can be deadly. Fortunately, encounters with them off the coast of Phuket are rare, but the risk still exists.
- They can be found mainly in calm and shallow bays during the low season, especially after strong storms.
Scyphomedusae:
- These jellyfish are less dangerous. When in contact, they cause burns, itching or mild skin irritation.
Moon Jellyfish or Aurelia:
- They are more often found in the open sea. Their poison is usually weak (it may even be imperceptible to humans), but contact can still be unpleasant.
What about the Portuguese man of war?
The Portuguese Man of War (Physalia physalis), also known as the Portuguese Man of War, is a marine animal that is sometimes found off the coast of Phuket. Although it resembles a jellyfish in appearance, it is actually a siphonophore, a colonial creature made up of many specialized organisms.
The Portuguese man-of-war is not only beautiful, but also very dangerous:
- Its tentacles contain toxins that, when in contact with skin, can cause:
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- Severe burns and redness.
- Intense pain that can last for several hours.
- In rare cases, allergic reactions including difficulty breathing, seizures and loss of consciousness.
- Even washed up on the shore, physalia retain the ability to sting, so you should not touch them even when dead.
It is found mainly in the low season. After meeting it, immediately contact the rescuers or call an ambulance (phone 1669).
Something small is stinging in the sea off the coast of Phuket - what is it?
Very often in the middle of the dry season you can come across some microorganisms in the sea, encountering which causes unpleasant sensations. Most likely these are jellyfish larvae, which are safe, but can cause allergies in people with sensitive skin. They are sometimes carried by the current to the shore. If you encounter them in one part of the beach - just try to swim a little further or a little later, when they are carried away by the current. There are also sunscreens that protect against them, for example Safe Sea - we attach a photo below.
When is the risk of encountering jellyfish higher?
Rainy season (May–October):
- After strong storms, jellyfish can be washed closer to the shore.
- The water becomes less transparent, making them difficult to detect.
But most often during the rainy season the sea is so rough that swimming is impossible on many beaches. Therefore, there are far fewer news stories about encounters with jellyfish than in the dry season.
Dry season (November–April):
- The risk is lower, but the probability of encountering jellyfish still exists, especially in bays with warm water.
For example, in 2022-2023, a fairly large colony of jellyfish formed off the coast of Phuket and Krabi.
How to avoid encounters with jellyfish?
1. Swim at popular beaches:
- they are usually monitored by lifeguards who warn of danger.
2. Be careful in the open sea:
- When snorkeling or diving, watch out for jellyfish and wear protective wetsuits.
3. Avoid swimming in the dark:
- Jellyfish may be more active at night.
What to do if you get stung by a jellyfish?
1. Assess the extent of damage:
- If it is a box jellyfish, call an ambulance immediately (phone 1669).
- For less serious burns, treat the affected area.
2. Do not use fresh water:
- It activates the remains of the poison on the skin. It is better to wash it with sea water.
3. Vinegar is the best assistant:
- Vinegar neutralizes the poison of box jellyfish. There are vinegar stations on many beaches in Phuket.
4. Apply cold:
- Use ice to reduce pain and swelling.
5. Apply the leaves of bindweed, which grows on most beaches in Phuket. It should be crushed by hand or ground in a mortar (this is what lifeguards do) and applied to the burn. Below is a photo of the plant.
6. Consult a doctor:
- If the symptoms do not go away, you feel weak, the swelling at the burn site increases, be sure to visit a medical facility.
Safety first
Despite the presence of jellyfish, Phuket beaches remain popular and safe for recreation. To avoid unpleasant situations:
- Follow the warning signs on the beach.
- Be careful in the water, especially after a storm.
By being aware of the local fauna and taking precautions, you can enjoy your holiday in Phuket without unnecessary worries.
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