Vietnam’s Phu Quoc issues jellyfish warning after foreign tourist gets stung

A short video circulating on social media showed the female tourist with redness and pain on her leg as bystanders administered first aid.

The incident occurred during the annual jellyfish season, which runs from April to August, when warmer waters attract various jellyfish species closer to shore.

Tran Ngo Minh Toan, director of the Kien Giang Marine Protected Area, said on Monday that the beaches in Ganh Dau, Cua Can, Bai Thom, Ham Ninh, and An Thoi Wards are known to have higher jellyfish activity during this period, especially after rain or during high tide, when jellyfish can be swept in by waves.

Species commonly found in the area include harmless types like comb jellies and moon jellies, as well as fire jellyfish, which have stinging tentacles, and the more dangerous box jellyfish, though the latter are rarely seen in Phu Quoc.

Toan urged swimmers to wear long-sleeved swimwear, avoid the sea after rain or when jellyfish or unusual sea foams are visible, and consider using jellyfish repellent.

“Even dead jellyfish can still release toxins from their tentacles,” he said.

He advised against rubbing stung areas and recommended using vinegar to neutralize toxins and a flat object to gently remove remaining stingers.

People showing symptoms such as difficulty breathing, dizziness, or severe pain should seek immediate medical attention, he added.