Deadly Portuguese galleys alert in Phuket, southern Thailand

Thai authorities have issued an alert after dozens of Portuguese galleys ran aground on Patong Beach in Phuket.

The Portuguese galley , Physalia or Sea bladder, is responsible for a large number of envenomations, which can cause serious injuries in humans, even death.

The Center for Marine and Coastal Resources Research (DMCR) said it received a report of the venomous creatures off Phuket on the evening of Saturday, August 31.

DMCR officials and Patong Surf Life Saving rescuers visited the popular beach and found 40 Portuguese galleys in the shallow waters, pushed ashore by strong winds.

However, no cases of stings have yet been reported.

The DMCR has distributed warning leaflets to the public, local businesses and tourists, urging swimmers to take extra precautions to avoid being stung.

Portuguese galley stranded on a beach. Photo: Surf Life Saving

Lifeguards are ready to provide first aid in case of stings and are keeping a close eye on the presence of Portuguese galleys in the water.

A Portuguese galley sting can cause intense pain, whip-like lines and sores on the areas of skin touched by the tentacles.

See: Tourist screams in pain after being bitten by animal on Thailand beach

For first aid, experts suggest washing the sting area with seawater and immersing the affected area in warm water (such as in a hot shower) for 20 minutes.

You can also cover the area with a dry cold compress to relieve pain.

Unlike jellyfish stings, experts advise against using vinegar to treat Portuguese galley stings.

See also:

Dangerous animals to know about in Thailand

Tourist survives deadly jellyfish attack in Thailand

Beware, it's poisonous jellyfish season in Thailand

How to protect yourself from box jellyfish stings in Thailand

Source: Bangkok Post