BANGKOK, 3 June 2013 The Department of Marine and Coastal Resources are warning tourists of possible jellyfish attacks in southern coastal provinces during the rainy season.
Marine biologists have predicted a dangerous jellyfish season in Thailand as the country is entering a monsoon period. The department stated that deadly species of box jellyfish which are known for extremely potent venom can be found in many provinces on both the Andaman and Gulf of Thailand coasts.
The sting of a box jellyfish can cause excruciating pain, muscle cramps, nausea, vomiting, headaches, heart palpitations and cardiac failure.
The department has so far held forums to provide information on first-aid care to residents in Satun and Phuket provinces in case of a jellyfish sting. Experts recommended that pressure immobilization can be used on limbs to slow down the spreading of the venom. Large amounts of vinegar should also be applied before and after the stinging tentacle is removed.
Warning signs and instructions for first-aid treatments have been posted in affected areas in both Satun and Phuket.
