Blue button jellyfish are 2-3cm across, and have tentacles that can deliver a painful sting. (Photo: อุทยานแห่งชาติหมู่เกาะสิมิลัน – Mu Ko Similan National Park)
A public safety warning has been issued after blue button jellyfish were found along parts of the shoreline at Princess Beach and in other areas of the Similan Islands National Park.
Princess Beach has been temporarily closed for swimming.
Several blue buttons were seen in several areas designated for swimming, mainly on the island’s eastern coast, known locally as the front beach.
While their venom is less severe than that of the box jellyfish, contact can cause an immediate stinging or burning sensation. Symptoms may include redness, swelling, itching or the formation of small fluid-filled blisters.
They are also smaller, 2-3cm across, and their stings less painful than the bluebottle jellyfish that often appear at Thai beaches.
Park officials recommend rinsing the sting area with seawater. Fresh water should not be used immediately, and the area should not be rubbed. Any remaining tentacles should be carefully removed. Visitors experiencing severe pain, a spreading rash or other unusual symptoms should notify park officials without delay.
The swimming zone along Princess Beach has been temporarily closed until conditions are deemed safe.