Cases of Shark Attacking Humans Rise Worldwide, Allegedly Due to Pandemic

Cases of unwarranted shark bites rise from various species around the world.

REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, JAKARTA — Shark attacks are reported to have increased again worldwide in 2021. Researchers at the Florida Museum’s International Shark Attack File (ISAF) noted that throughout 2021 there were 73 shark bite case unprovoked and 11 cases of death due to shark bites.

The attacks represent a substantial increase from the 52 cases recorded in 2020, and the lowest number recorded in more than a decade. But ISAF representatives said beach closures during the pandemic offered a possible explanation for the spike in shark attacks.

“Shark bites decreased dramatically in 2020 due to the pandemic. Last year was much more typical, with the average number of bites from a variety of species from great whites, bull sharks and tiger sharks,” said ISAF Manager, Tyler Bowling, as reported by the news agency. People, Wednesday (26/1/2022).

The 73 unprovoked attacks recorded in 2021 more closely match the five-year global average of 72 cases. Most of the shark attack in the US occurred in Florida which accounted for 28 non -fatal bites. Then followed Hawaii with six attacks, and California with three shark attacks.

According to ISAF data, although shark attacks have returned to their historical average, deaths from shark attacks have declined. This may be due to stricter health guidelines at each beach and fewer sharks along the coast.

“The overall decline in shark bite deaths is likely due to a combination of improved coastal safety protocols worldwide and a decrease in the number of sharks of various species in coastal waters,” said Gavin Naylor, director of the Florida Museum’s shark research program.

“The surge in 2020 and 2021 is almost certain to be due to increasing numbers of great white sharks, which have increased in various areas likely in response to the explosion in the population of seals they feed on,” Naylor added.

Larry Cahoon, professor of marine biology and biology at the University of North Carolina, tells of several things beachgoers can do if they encounter a shark. First, he recommends swimming as quickly as possible and seeking immediate help from someone else.

“Those who survive a shark attack are the ones who get direct help from others,” said Cahoon.

He also advised against trying to hit the shark’s nose. “A 10-foot bull shark will weigh almost 500 pounds and basically every part of them is full of muscle. What can you do with punching it? It’s irrational to hit it. So focus on getting back to land,” he said.

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