A 14-year-old boy from Missouri was bitten by a shark while vacationing in Daytona Beach Shores, marking the fourth shark bite incident in Volusia County this month.
The incident occurred Wednesday morning as the teenager was wading in knee-deep water. The shark bit his left foot, causing non-life-threatening injuries that required hospitalization. The type of shark involved remains unknown.
This latest attack follows three other shark bite incidents within the past week alone. On Monday, another 14-year-old boy was bitten on the calf during junior lifeguard training in Ponce Inlet. Last Friday, a 26-year-old man from Sarasota was bitten off New Smyrna Beach, and the day before, a 21-year-old Ohio man suffered a similar fate in the same area.
Read: Are Shark Attacks On The Rise In Florida And Texas Waters?
Volusia County Beach Safety has recorded a spike in shark activity this month, raising concerns among beachgoers and officials alike. While shark bites are relatively rare, the recent surge has prompted warnings and increased vigilance along the coastline.
Beach Safety officials are urging swimmers to exercise caution and remain aware of their surroundings. They advise against swimming at dawn or dusk, when sharks are most active, and recommend staying in groups. Additionally, avoiding areas with bait fish or where people are fishing can help minimize the risk of encountering sharks.
Read: Shark Bites Teen During Lifeguard Training In Florida
The injured teenager is expected to make a full recovery. Despite the recent incidents, officials emphasize that shark bites are still statistically rare events and should not deter people from enjoying the beaches. However, they stress the importance of remaining vigilant and taking necessary precautions to ensure safety in the water.
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