With the purple jellyfish (Pelagia noctiluca) increasingly present in Greek seas during summer, the Hellenic Red Cross has issued public guidance on recognizing symptoms of its sting and provided five essential first-aid steps for safe, immediate response.
Why It’s Potentially Dangerous
The purple jellyfish is considered the most venomous jellyfish species in the Mediterranean. Its bell and tentacles are covered with specialized stinging cells called cnidocytes, which release toxic substances upon contact with skin.
While stings are intensely painful, severe allergic reactions are rare.
First-Aid Steps (Hellenic Red Cross Health Sector Guidelines)
1. Rinse the affected area thoroughly with seawater—do not rub.
2. Carefully remove any remaining tentacles using tweezers or a pair of pliers. Then gently scrape away residual stingers with a plastic card—such as a credit or ticket card.
3. Apply a cold compress: wrap ice in a towel or cloth and place it on the sting for 5–15 minutes—or use an instant cold pack.
4. Apply a topical cortisone-based cream to the area.
5. Take an appropriate over-the-counter pain reliever if needed for discomfort.
What NOT to Do
• Do not touch the area with bare hands.
• Do not rub the skin with sand or a towel.
• Do not rinse with fresh water.
• Do not apply vinegar, alcohol, or ammonia.
When to Seek Emergency Help
Immediate medical attention—or calling 166 or 112—is critical if:
- The reaction is widespread;
- There is severe discomfort or difficulty breathing;
- The person stung is a young child, elderly, or has a history of allergies.
Common Local Symptoms
• Intense burning pain and stinging sensation
• Skin redness and swelling
• Characteristic linear welts or imprint patterns on the skin
• Severe itching
Possible Systemic Reactions
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
The Hellenic Red Cross emphasizes that basic first-aid knowledge can be decisive in managing emergencies effectively—helping safeguard public health and safety during summer holidays.