A leading scientist has urged authorities to install submerged nets for protection against box jellyfish and to place warning signs on all beaches where it is reported that people have been stung by the deadly creatures.
Dr Charassri Angtanya, a fishery biologist, senior professional level, at the Marine and Coastal Resources Research and Development Institute in Bangkok, also urged officials to supply bottles of vinegar for emergency use when first aid treatment is needed for swimmers who come into contact with the jellyfish.
Fatal stings are seen on the leg of a German tourist who died after being stung by box jellyfish while swimming at a beach on Koh Samui in Surat Thani on Tuesday night. (Photo by Supapong Chaolan)
Dr Charassri called for action after a 20-year-old German tourist died when struck by the poisonous tentacles of a box jellyfish at Lamai beach on Koh Samui in Surat Thani on Tuesday night. Another 20-year-old German woman was hospitalised in severe pain after she was stung while going into the sea to help her injured friend.
Dr Charassri said there were 36 species of box jellyfish known around the world, of which some were poisonous and some were not. A study found certain species could produce venom more powerful than that of a cobra and could kill a person in between two and 15 minutes.
The stinging invertebrates could be found in the Gulf of Thailand and Andaman Sea coastal areas.
Dr Charassri said those giving help to people stung by box jellyfish would see whip-like marks on the person’s skin. After rescuing the injured person from the water, the rescuers must quickly get someone to call the 1669 medical emergency hotline, then tell the person to stay still to prevent the venom from spreading. They should then flood the area with vinegar for at least 30 seconds. CRP must be performed immediately if the heart stops beating and there is no pulse, Dr Charassri said.