The species of jellyfish and related stinging beasties (sea lice, ctenophores etc.) that bloom here in Qatar are generally not the dangerous species (e.g., Box, Portuguese man-of-war), this is not to say that a sting may not be received from the blooming species. However, when swimming or diving full body protection (e.g. lycra suit) should prevent dermatological contact and thus stings. Stings from blooming species would normally only need Hydrocortisone cream to remove itching sensation - a small rash may develop and persis for months. As always if unsure / condition worsens medical assistance should be sought.
DEAD jellyfish will still sting, therefore minimal contact advised.
Typical initial treatment of jellyfish sting involves preventing further toxin release by removing any remaining tentacles or other retained animal parts. These may not be visible! There is no consensus for the best method of inactivating stings and reducing pain. There is some evidence that immersion of the affected area in hot water and the application of heat packs are effective pain-relief methods. Other treatments recommended by published and anecdotal sources include application of cold packs and irrigation with ethanol, vinegar, urine, baking soda, or methylated spirits. There is insufficient evidence to support one treatment over others because of the variety of study designs and jellyfish species that were used. Vigorous rubbing and irrigation with fresh water are not recommended because these methods may induce additional nematocyst discharge. Furthermore irrigation with seawater from intake not advised as this may introduce more stings onto skin.
The biggest problem is differentiating between jellyfish and other marine organisms that can sting and look like jellyfish......
Jellyfish stings should never result in an open wound. If you have one go to A&E and get it attended to.
Sea snakes that are often seen in the sea are not to be touched/harassed as they are potentially deadly. Again DEAD sea snakes still have bite reactions for several hours after they are dead.
The species of jellyfish and related stinging beasties (sea lice, ctenophores etc.) that bloom here in Qatar are generally not the dangerous species (e.g., Box, Portuguese man-of-war), this is not to say that a sting may not be received from the blooming species. However, when swimming or diving full body protection (e.g. lycra suit) should prevent dermatological contact and thus stings. Stings from blooming species would normally only need Hydrocortisone cream to remove itching sensation - a small rash may develop and persis for months. As always if unsure / condition worsens medical assistance should be sought.
DEAD jellyfish will still sting, therefore minimal contact advised.
Typical initial treatment of jellyfish sting involves preventing further toxin release by removing any remaining tentacles or other retained animal parts. These may not be visible! There is no consensus for the best method of inactivating stings and reducing pain. There is some evidence that immersion of the affected area in hot water and the application of heat packs are effective pain-relief methods. Other treatments recommended by published and anecdotal sources include application of cold packs and irrigation with ethanol, vinegar, urine, baking soda, or methylated spirits. There is insufficient evidence to support one treatment over others because of the variety of study designs and jellyfish species that were used. Vigorous rubbing and irrigation with fresh water are not recommended because these methods may induce additional nematocyst discharge. Furthermore irrigation with seawater from intake not advised as this may introduce more stings onto skin.
The biggest problem is differentiating between jellyfish and other marine organisms that can sting and look like jellyfish......
Jellyfish stings should never result in an open wound. If you have one go to A&E and get it attended to.
Sea snakes that are often seen in the sea are not to be touched/harassed as they are potentially deadly. Again DEAD sea snakes still have bite reactions for several hours after they are dead.