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Stinging Hydroid, Jellyfish, Anemones

There are close to ten thousand different kinds of jellyfish species and their tentacles contain small sacs of venom called nematocysts.

Divers and swimmers are susceptible to jellyfish stings and coral rash that often cause itchiness, severe pain, red welts, blotches - and in some cases death!

Sting Symptoms: Jellyfish, Coral, Hydroids

This group includes species that are potentially harmful to humans and are distributed throughout the world, but mainly in tropical waters.

The poison attacks the immune system of the victim. Typical manifestations include:

Stinging sensation, acute local pain, red rash, raised wheals
Severe pain in the lymph glands, abdomen, muscles, and back
Signs and symptoms associated with medical shock
Breathing difficulty (sometimes a cessation of breathing)
Unresponsiveness, cardiac arrest (especially from box-type jellyfish)

First Aid Treatment for Stings

Within the Tropics

Promptly pour vinegar over the sting area for up to thirty (30) seconds.
If vinegar is not available, pick off any adherent tentacles and wash the wound with sea water (do not use fresh water).

For All Jellyfish Stings

Check consciousness, airway, and breathing. Commence cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) if necessary.
Seek urgent medical help if pain is severe or if the victim has difficulty breathing.
Do not allow rubbing of the sting. Instead, apply cold packs (or wrapped ice) for pain relief.
Immersing the sting area in hot water (45° Celsius) may be more effective than cooling for Pacific Blue Bottle stings. But, do not use this kind of first aid treatment for box jellyfish stings.
Pick off any adherent tentacles and wash hands afterwards. Wash the wound with sea water.

Special Considerations for Coral Cuts

Coral cuts can cause serious secondary infections if early wound cleaning is not carried in an effective manner.

Thus, thoroughly clean the wound using fresh water (not sea water) as soon as possible. Use an antiseptic lotion with a soft brush and remove all foreign material.

If an antibiotic is not available, apply a local antibiotic powder or ointment, or provide iodine paint or skin cleanser. Follow up medical care is recommended for all coral cuts.