Foreign Tourist Injured by Jellyfish at Phuket’s Nai Thon Beach

Phuket –

Officials from the Upper Andaman Marine and Coastal Resources Research Center (MCRC) inspected Nai Thon Beach in Phuket following reports on social media that a tourist had been injured by a jellyfish sting.

On September 9th, 2026, when the team arrived, red warning flags were already in place due to rough seas. No jellyfish were found along the shoreline during the survey. However, lifeguards stationed at the beach had earlier collected a specimen, later identified as a Portuguese man o’ war (Physalia sp.) with a bell size of approximately three centimeters.

The victim, a 23‑year‑old foreign woman, experienced severe burning pain after contact with the jellyfish. Lifeguards provided immediate first aid before transferring her to hospital, where she was treated with pain relief and antihistamines. Her condition has since improved, and she has returned to her accommodation.

MCRC officials used the incident to reinforce public awareness, distributing educational materials to lifeguards on proper first aid procedures for jellyfish stings. The case was also recorded in Thailand’s Marine Tourism Warning System to support ongoing monitoring and alerts.

Authorities urge tourists, local residents, and operators to exercise caution when swimming in the sea, particularly during periods of strong waves. Visitors are advised to strictly follow lifeguard instructions and beach warning signals to ensure safety while enjoying Thailand’s coastal attractions.