Local authorities are urging caution at Patong Beach after dozens of venomous bluebottle jellyfish were found washed up on the shore. The Marine and Coastal Resources Research Center (Upper Andaman Sea) reported the presence of the jellyfish on Saturday evening. In response, officials from the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR) and lifeguards from Patong Surf Life Saving quickly arrived at the popular beach, discovering around 40 bluebottles in the shallow waters, driven ashore by strong winds. Fortunately, no sting incidents have been reported yet.
The DMCR has distributed warning leaflets to the public, local businesses, and tourists, advising swimmers to exercise extra caution to avoid being stung. Lifeguards are on standby to provide first aid for jellyfish stings and will closely monitor the situation.
A sting from a bluebottle jellyfish can cause intense pain, whip-like marks, and sores on the affected skin. Experts recommend washing the sting area with seawater and immersing it in hot water (such as a hot shower) for 20 minutes or applying a dry cold pack for pain relief. They advise against using vinegar on the sting.
