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Portuguese carabela is causing incidents on the beaches of the Basque Country

They have been intercepted in the Zurriola and La Concha of San Sebastián, and in Bizkaia on the beach of Bakio. These animals usually reach the shore by sea currents and wind, and sometimes their bites can be dangerous. 

La Cruz Roja de Bizkaia ha alertado este domingo de la presencia de medusas en las playas de La Arena, Azkorri, Arriatera-Atxabiribil, Gorliz, Aritzatxu, Laida y Laga. Especialistas señalan que el cambio climático, junto con la contaminación y la disminución de sus depredadores naturales, está facilitando su expansión. El fenómeno coincide con un notable incremento de las temperaturas y alteraciones en las corrientes marinas, condiciones que favorecen la proliferación de estas especies.
Portuguese carabela on a beach in Sopelana (Bizkaia). Photo: EITB Media

In recent weeks, Portuguese carabelas have appeared on the beaches of the coast of the Basque Country, and in view of their danger, they have decimated the bathing in the waters of the beaches where the presence of these living beings is considerable. 

Just on Sunday 20 people were bitten on the beach of La Zurriola in San Sebastián and 40 on the beach of La Concha.  In Bizkaia, also in Bakio, Portuguese carabels have been seen. The area is close to where rescuers are sworn in and where necessary preventive measures are taken, such as banning bathing.

Although they look like jellyfish, they are clusters of hydroids. It is an animal that moves according to the currents of hot water, it is shaken on the surface of the water, and some are very small. They are transparent, blue, purple, and are not the only living ones, but colonies of polyps that function as units.

Although in most cases their bites are mild, in some cases they can be dangerous. Human contact can lead to burns, skin reactions, and hives.

What to do if there's a prick

If bitten by a Portuguese carabela, it is important to go to the lifeguard as soon as possible.

It is very important not to use fresh water because it can increase the reaction. It is also not advisable to scratch at the spot of the sting to prevent the animal from releasing more poison. To neutralize the poison and remove the tentacles with tweezers, vinegar can be used.

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