Thousands of jellyfish wash up on Brittany beaches
The species, usually found in warmer Mediterranean waters, were brought in by storms
Tropical storms brought the jellyfish to the shores of Brittany
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Tens of thousands of stinging jellyfish have been washed up on beaches in south Finistère, Brittany, in recent days.
The jellyfish, which have been identified as Pelagia Noctiluca (Mauve Stinger), are pinkish-brown in colour and can sting if touched or stepped on even if dead.
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This species of jellyfish is usually found in warmer Mediterranean waters, however tropical storms have brought them to the shores of Concarneau in north-west France.
Dominique Barthelemy, curator at Océanopolis in Brest, told 20 Minutes: “it's quite common in late summer or early autumn to see jellyfish washing up on Brittany's coasts.” However, he adds that climate change is responsible for the increasing global jellyfish population.
It is therefore likely that the phenomenon will happen again with future storms, as marine animals enjoy warm water currents.
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Mr Barthelemy warns against touching the jellyfish as they can sting and even lead to anaphylactic shock.
Beachgoers should also avoid covering jellyfish with sand as this makes them harder to spot and easier to accidentally step on.
What to do if stung
If stung by a jellyfish, it is advised to:
Rinse the area with seawater. Do not use fresh water or urinate on the sting (a reported way to help) as this ‘liberates’ and diffuses the venom, causing more pain.
Apply warm sand to any irritating filaments left on the skin and scrape gently with the side of a postcard / equivalent to remove them.
Disinfect the area with a disinfectant cream or wipe. Avoid touching or scratching the sting and keep it dry.
The Finistère Prefecture has also issued a reminder to avoid touching your face or rubbing your eyes if stung.
Stings usually get better on their own. However if experiencing severe swelling or an allergic reaction, seek help from a medical professional.
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