The DMCR announced, “Our records show no sightings or encounters this year of these jellyfish in the waters around Phuket, but just in case we have erected warning signs at 11 beaches along the west coast of the island that are most likely to be affected.
“These are Nai Yang, Patong (two places), Racha Yai, Naithon, Bangtao, Surin, Kamala, Kata, Karon and Nai Harn.
“It should be noted that the jellyfish might appear at other beaches.”
The DMCR believes that seven species of jellyfish could pose a danger to swimmers.
Of these, Tripedalia cystophora and Chiropsella are venomous but not likely to cause death.
The others are four types of box jelly – Chiropsoides buitendijki, Carybdea sivickisi, Chironex sp. A and Chironex sp. B – and Morbakka fenneri, first identified five years ago, and highly venomous.
“We have briefed life guards and local people on first aid for jelly fish poisoning.”
The DMCR has also issued an information sheet (download here) giving first aid advice, primarily to use vinegar to neutralise the venom. Lacking vinegar, any mildly acidic liquid (lime juice, perhaps or, in extremis, urine) can be used.
The DMCR is to hold public briefings on jellyfish (Thai language only) on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday (May 20-23) from 9am to midday, at the Public Health Office on Narison Rd in Phuket Town. See Google map below for location.