Non-Tropical Jellyfish Stings

FIRST AID FACT SHEET

Non-Tropical Jellyfish Stings

Many species of jellyfish such as the Bluebottle occur in nontropical Australian coastal waters. Stings from these jellyfish can cause immediate pain and allergic reactions.

What to do

  1. Follow DRSABCD St John Action Plan.
  2. Rest and reassure the casualty.
  3. Prevent the casualty from rubbing stung area.
  4. Pick off any remaining tentacles with fingers taking care not to get stung yourself.
  5. Monitor the casualty constantly.
  6. Douse affected area with seawater, DO NOT use freshwater.
  7. If possible place the stung area in hot water (no hotter than the first aider can tolerate).
  8. If pain persists or is generalised, if the sting area is large (half of a limb or more), or involves sensitive areas (eg the eye) call an ambulance dial Triple Zero (000). Seek medical aid if the sting area is large (half of a limb or more), or involves sensitive areas (for example, the eye) call Triple Zero (000) for an ambulance.

    Caused by

    • Venom injected on contact with the skin through nematocyst tubules on the tentacles.

    Signs and symptoms

    • Immediate pain ranging from mild irritation to intense, sharp or burning pain.
    • Oval-shaped blanched wheals and surrounding redness on the skin.
    • Muscle aches and cramps.
    • Nausea.
    • Vomiting.