Spain jellyfish warning issued: Costa del Sol facing stinging fish ‘all summer’

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The weather conditions and climate change are responsible for the jellyfish currently found all over Costa del Sol. Green campaigners warned that the stinging fishes will be around “all summer”.

There are various species of the fishes found on the Spanish coast, with some giving a very painful sting.

The Pelagia noctiluca, also known as the mauve stinger, is poisonous to humans but normally only causes a whip-like scar across the body.

If this was not scary enough, an allergic reaction could cause life-threatening conditions like anaphylactic shock.

While allergic reactions are rare, Spanish naturalists have issued a warning to bathers.

READ MORE: Spain, France, Greece & Portugal: FCDO latest advice for travellers

A spokesperson for conservation group Aula del Mar said: “The presence of Pelagia noctiluca is almost generalised throughout the coast with scattered specimens. In the western zone, they are appearing in higher concentrations.”

A monster jellyfish species was also spotted in large numbers.

The Rhizostoma luteum can weigh up to 40 kilograms.

The spokesperson said: “For this reason we invite caution, paying attention to the signs of the lifeguards and the flags.”

Tourists should heed lifeguards warnings and beach closures.

The coast of Malaga, including locations such as Benalmádena, Fuengirola and Marbella could see an influx of jellyfish.

Biologist Jesús Bellido told Spanish media group SUR: “This year we are sure there is going to be a series of conditions that would favour a high presence, as has finally happened this week.”

Jellyfish have been spotted in great numbers, and experts are sure they will continue to come to the Malaga coast in the coming weeks.

Malaga has a phone app Infomedusa, which reports on the 132 beaches of the region and the presence of jellyfish, proving that the province is taking the issue seriously.

The app also reports on general information, such as the temperature of the water or the direction and force of the wind.

Concerning jellyfish, the app has recommendations on what to do in case of a sting.

The number one recommendation is to go quickly to the nearest aid or attention post.

The app also says: “Do not rub the injury with sand, towels, or tissues.

“Wash with cold salt water, never fresh water.

“Apply ice through a plastic bag or similar to avoid contact with fresh water.

“Do not apply home remedies (vinegar, mud or similar).” 

Additional reporting by Rita Sobot

 

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