GETTY
SOMEFIN TO WORRY ABOUT? Daily Star Online speaks to an expert about shark attack probability
Ever since Jaws hit cinema screens in 1975, the world has been terrified of sharks.
While their reputation has improved slightly in recent years, tourists have started worrying about the predators again this month.
Last week, a man was killed by a shark as he swam off the coast of Egypt.
So is this attack anything to worry about? And are British tourists safe swimming in the Red Sea?
Daily Star Online spoke to shark expert Richard Peirce to find out more.
Related Articles
Last Friday, the remains of a Czech tourist were found on Marsa Alam beach.
Its believed that the 41-year-old man died after he was attacked by a shark in the Red Sea.
These waters are popular with swimmers, who enjoy exploring the coral and marine life.
Because of this, visitors have been advised to go diving instead of observing the deep waters from the surface.
Shark cage diving: A close shave with great whites
Swimming with great white sharks is the ULTIMATE adrenaline buzz Calypso Star Charters The shark's reputation as a ferocious man-eater has been hugely exaggerated
After the tragedy, many voiced their concerns that something similar will occur again.
In 2010, there were six recorded shark attacks in Egyptian waters.
This sparked fear among tourists – especially as five of the incidents occurred in five days.
While these cases are rare, a German tourist was also killed by a shark in 2015.
Related Articles
Egypt remains a popular tourist destination for Brits – and if you visit you dont have to avoid the sea.
As up to 14.7 million holidaymakers arrive in the African country every year, the chances of being killed by a shark are very slim.
Following the recent attack, wildlife conservationist Richard Peirce spoke to Daily Star Online.
He said: “Shark related deaths in the Red Sea are nothing new, but are extremely rare, and when one considers the numbers of recreational water users in the Red Sea, and then compares it to the rare attacks, then the correct perspective is arrived at.
“Be sensible and there is very little to be concerned about.”
Related articles
[contf] [contfnew]
daily star
[contfnewc] [contfnewc]