Egypt Shark Attack: Unpacking the Rarity of Fatal Maulings at Red Sea Resorts

Egypt Shark Attack: How Rare Are Fatal Maulings at Red Sea Resorts?

On Thursday, a Russian tourist was mauled and killed by a tiger shark while swimming off the shore near the city of Hurghada, Egypt. The incident has raised concerns about the safety of tourists in the Red Sea coastal regions.

Shark Attacks in Egypt Are Rare

Despite the recent fatal shark attacks in Hurghada, such incidents are still rare in the Red Sea’s waters, which are known for their stunning beaches and coral reefs. Shark attacks in Egypt are uncommon, with only 18 incidents recorded in the past 30 years, according to the International Shark Attack File. The relative risk of being attacked by a shark is very low, with a 1 in 4 million chance of dying in a shark-related incident.

What You Can Do to Reduce the Risk of Shark Attacks

Swimmers and divers can reduce their risk of shark attacks significantly by following some safety guidelines. First and foremost, they should stay aware of the risks and stay informed about the local conditions. Swimmers should avoid swimming in the water at night, as well as when there are reports of sharks nearby. Swimmers are also advised to swim in groups, as sharks are more likely to go after individuals. Divers should stay close to the shore and avoid excess splashing.

It is also important to avoid swimming with open wounds and to avoid wearing shiny jewellery and brightly coloured swimwear, as these items can attract sharks. If a shark does attack, experts suggest striking it on the tip of its nose or aiming for vulnerable spots like its gills and eyes.

Reviving Tourism Sector in Egypt

Egypt has been working hard over the past few years to revitalise its tourism sector, which has been hit hard by years of political instability, the coronavirus pandemic, and the war in Ukraine. The country’s beautiful coral reefs and golden beaches, particularly in Red Sea resorts like Hurghada and Sharm el-Sheikh, are some of the most popular tourist destinations in Egypt, attracting large numbers of European tourists every year.

Conclusion

While shark attacks are rare, swimmers and divers should take precautions to reduce their risk. By following some simple safety guidelines, tourists can enjoy the stunning beauty of Egypt‘s Red Sea without worrying much about a shark attack.