Gandia takes measures against jellyfish infestation

Giving peace of mind to beachgoers this summer

The municipal website of Gandia (a city located on the Spanish Levantine coast) informed that once again, the local City Council and the Fishermen's Guild are organizing a campaign to collect jellyfish from Gandia's beach-adjacent waters during the summer months. The first boats to carry out these cleaning actions left on 10 July and will end their operations on 12 September.

This is also a way for fishermen to earn some extra income

Regarding the allocation of boats, the Councilor for Fisheries, Alícia Izquierdo, explained that on, Thursday 8 July, a draw was held. This was to determine how the 16 fishing boats that have joined the campaign would make 25 trips in different shifts coordinated by the Guild.

Regarding the initiative, the head of Fisheries has thanked the Guild of Fishermen for their commitment to once again join the campaign which, in addition, "helps to ensure the cleanliness of the beaches, especially in the tourist season”.

For his part, the Board president of the District of El Grau, Miguel Ángel Picornell, said that "the agreement has many advantages for the fishing and tourism sector: the first, earns much needed extra money after the economic damage caused by the Covid-19 crisis. And second, the users of our beaches get rid of the annoying stings of jellyfish”.

What to do if you get stung by a jellyfish?

Still, it is a good idea to be prepared for an eventuality this summer where you will have an unfortunate encounter with a jellyfish. Here is what expert advise to be done in case of suffering a jellyfish sting:

• Contact a lifeguard, who should be equipped and trained to assist immediately,
• Try wetting the wound with vinegar, baking soda dissolved in water or saltwater,
• Cool the sting area by applying ice for about 5-10 minutes,
• Avoid infections – protect the wound by using antiseptic handwash or soap,
• If the pain does not subside, seek medical help.