Rare Fatal Shark Attacks in Red Sea Resorts: A Closer Look at Egypt's Safety Record

A recent incident involving a shark attack at one of Egypt's Red Sea resorts has raised concerns about the safety of tourists in the region. This article delves into the rarity of such attacks, provides details about the recent incident, and offers insights into measures that can be taken to minimize the risk of shark encounters.

Egypt's Environment Ministry confirmed the tragic death of a Russian citizen who was mauled by a tiger shark near Hurghada, a city on the Red Sea coast. As a precautionary measure, authorities have closed off a 74-kilometre stretch of coastline until Sunday. The captured shark is currently being examined in a laboratory to ascertain the causes behind this uncommon attack.

Shark attacks are infrequent in the Red Sea coastal regions, making this incident an exception. However, it is worth noting that in 2022, there were two fatal attacks within days in Hurghada, resulting in the deaths of an Austrian and a Romanian tourist.

Egypt's Red Sea resorts, including popular destinations such as Hurghada and Sharm el-Sheikh, are renowned for their beautiful beaches and attract a significant number of European tourists. Divers are particularly drawn to the area due to its magnificent coral reefs and diverse marine life.

Egypt has been diligently working to revive its crucial tourism sector, which has faced setbacks due to political instability, the COVID-19 pandemic, and conflicts such as the war in Ukraine.

To reduce the risk of shark encounters, it is important to understand that tiger sharks, known for unprovoked attacks on humans, are among the most commonly reported species in the International Shark Attack File. Nonetheless, the database emphasizes that the relative risk of an attack remains extremely low, with approximately a 1 in 4 million chance of dying in a shark-related incident.

Despite this low risk, it is advisable to take precautions to further minimize any potential dangers. Recommendations include refraining from swimming at night, especially if sharks have been spotted in the area or if there are open wounds bleeding. Swimming in groups is also encouraged, as sharks are more likely to target solitary individuals. Additionally, minimizing excessive splashing and staying close to the shore can further reduce the likelihood of an encounter.

In the unfortunate event of a shark attack, experts from the International Shark Attack File suggest targeting vulnerable areas such as the shark's nose, gills, or eyes as a defensive strategy.




Conclusion:

While shark attacks at Red Sea resorts in Egypt are rare, recent incidents have highlighted the importance of maintaining awareness and taking necessary precautions. By following recommended safety guidelines and understanding the minimal risk associated with shark encounters, visitors can continue to enjoy the natural wonders and captivating beauty of Egypt's coastal regions.