Thailand beach jellyfish sting kills 13-year-old boy

On 1 August, 13‑year‑old Nanthaphat Boonplod died after being stung by a box jellyfish, known locally as a “sea‑wasp”, while swimming at Ban Fai Tha Beach in Nakhon Si Thammarat province, southern Thailand. The boy had just taken part in a charity football tournament and was in the water with friends when several jellyfish surrounded him. He lost consciousness, was rescued and taken to Sichon Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Two friends and a local rescuer were also stung but survived.

Thai authorities responded by strengthening beach surveillance, issuing new warnings to swimmers and deploying response teams to high‑risk coastal zones. Natural Resources and Environment Minister Suchart Chomklin offered condolences to the family and called for stricter safety protocols, including the use of vinegar on stings and immediate CPR when victims stop breathing.