Please be advised that a species of jellyfish, the Purple Jellyfish (Pelagia noctiluca), is dangerous and is found throughout the Mediterranean. However, their population has not increased since the latest outbreak started in 2020, both in the Aegean and almost simultaneously in Spanish waters. In the Aegean, numbers increase as you go further south, as the temperature of the water increases. With regard to the islands we cover, so far reports of the jellyfish have been recorded near the beaches of Kavala on the mainland, Limenaria on the island of Thassos and on Rhodes.

A fairly small and variably coloured species, both its tentacles and (unusual among jellyfish) its bell are covered in stinging cells. Stinging incidents are not uncommon and they can deliver a very painful sting, with the symptoms continuing for some considerable time after the encounter, but they are not regarded as life-threatening.

The sting causes pain that typically lasts 1–2 weeks, local redness, swelling and a rash. On occasion, symptoms may be more general and include dizziness, vomiting and diarrhoea. Sudden recurrent skin eruptions may occur years later.

Bathers, especially children, should be warned not to touch any jellyfish found on the beach and be mindful when swimming.

If stung, medical help should be immediately sought to help relieve the symptoms.

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