Cause of Fish Spine Injury:
Puncture from spine bearing marine creatures such as stingrays, scorpionfish, stonefish, catfish, weaverfish, crown of thorns, starfish, sea urchins and many others.

Signs & Symptoms of Fish Spine Injury:
• Puncture wound, lacerations and bleeding
• Immediate pain and acute if venomous
• Grey/blue discolouration around the puncture site
• Nausea and vomiting
• Shock
• Irrational behaviour, panic, reduced level of consciousness
• Death (rare)

First Aid Treatment for Fish Spine Injury:
• Control any severe bleeding if present
• Remove a spine but only if loose and easy to do so
• Immerse the wound in hot, but not scalding, water (45C)
• Test the water temperature and leave immersed for 30 - 90 minutes
• If hot water doesn't offer relief, apply ice/cold packs to the wound
• Treat for shock
• Use analgesics as directed
• Clean the wound by scrubbing with soap and fresh water then rinse with fresh water
• Apply local antiseptics and seek medical advice