The Hellenic Biodiversity Observatory has reported a significant and escalating outbreak of purple jellyfish (Pelagia noctiluca) across the coastal areas of Central Greece, urging swimmers to exercise extreme caution.
Initial assessments of the outbreak’s intensity in the Pagasitic Gulf and surrounding regions were underestimated due to low public reporting. The situation has since worsened, with the outbreak spreading faster than anticipated.
Where the purple jellyfish are causing concern in Greece
Purple jellyfish sightings have been of particular concern in the following areas:
- Northern Evia’s Gulf: Reliable reports confirm a severe problem, intensifying further north. Northern Evia is particularly vulnerable, as it serves as an outlet from the Pagasitic Gulf to the open sea.
- Pagasitic Gulf: Jellyfish remain present, primarily along its eastern shores.
- Northern Sporades: Confirmed sightings have been reported on Skiathos and Skopelos.
Large populations of jellyfish appear in Greece at intervals of four to five years, similar to those observed in other Mediterranean countries. In Greek seas, jellyfish typically remain for two to three years, and the period of their stay varies depending on the region and environmental conditions of the particular marine area.
Charitos Hintiroglou, a professor of Marine Biology at the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, told Agency 104.9 radio recently that jellyfish populations increase periodically, and the phenomenon is still being studied. “We do not know for certain why they show this population increase,” noted Hintiroglou.
The current outbreak in Greece mirrors a larger pattern observed across the Mediterranean between 2020 and 2023. Gibraltar is currently experiencing the most severe situation, with outbreaks also reported in Spain, France, Italy, and the Adriatic.
About the purple jellyfish (Pelagia noctiluca)
The species is relatively small and colorful. Both its tentacles and bell are covered in stinging cells (nematocysts), which is unusual for jellyfish.
While generally not dangerous, stings are common and painful, and symptoms can persist for an extended period of time. In rare cases, severe systemic reactions can occur, requiring immediate medical attention. Swarms of Pelagia noctiluca have been known to decimate entire fish farms, making it a highly studied species.
Symptoms of a purple jellyfish sting
Upon contact, common symptoms may include:
- a burning sensation, which is often intense
- reddening of the skin
- the appearance of a jellyfish imprint on the skin
The sting may also lead to:
- Nausea, headache, vomiting, and diarrhea
- Blood pressure drop and tachycardia
- Bronchospasms and shortness of breath
Immediate hospitalization is required if symptoms such as hypotension, hoarseness, inspiratory wheezing, disturbances in consciousness, or communication difficulties occur.
What to do if stung
In the case you or someone around you is stung, it is recommended that the following be done:
- Carefully remove any remaining tentacles without using your bare hands to prevent further stinging. Filling your hand with sand and rubbing the affected area can help.
- Rinse the sting area thoroughly with plenty of seawater. Do NOT use fresh water, as it can activate dormant stinging cells.
- Apply ice or cold compresses to the site where stung to reduce local skin reactions.
- Apply a cortisone cream to reduce inflammation and relieve stinging and itching.
- Take an antihistamine pill to address itching, especially if the affected area is large.
- If symptoms are severe or do not subside after applying local measures, a cortisone injection may be necessary. In such cases, promptly go to a hospital or health center.
Related: Jellyfish Found in Greece are the Least Dangerous of All
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