Allergic reactions
Infection
Emergency medical treatment
The purple flag helps beachgoers prepare before entering the water.
Common Marine Pests Behind Purple Flag Warnings
1. Jellyfish
Jellyfish are one of the most common reasons beaches raise purple flags.
Their tentacles contain microscopic stinging cells that activate on contact.
Common Symptoms:
Burning pain
Red welts
Swelling
Itching
Numbness
What to Do:
Rinse with vinegar if available
Remove tentacles carefully with tweezers
Use hot water immersion for pain relief
Seek medical help for severe reactions
Important:
Never rinse jellyfish stings with fresh water immediately. It may worsen the sting.
2. Stingrays
Stingrays hide beneath shallow sand near shorelines.
Most stingray injuries happen when swimmers accidentally step on them.
Symptoms:
Sharp puncture wound
Severe throbbing pain
Swelling
Bleeding
Treatment:
Soak the wound in hot water
Clean thoroughly
Seek medical attention to prevent infection
Prevention Tip:
Do the “stingray shuffle” by sliding your feet through the sand instead of stepping normally.
3. Sea Lice
Sea lice are tiny jellyfish larvae that become trapped under swimsuits.
They’re common in warm coastal waters.
