What To Do If Stung By A Deadly Box Jellyfish

Box jellyfish have been roaming the seas for five hundred million years making them the oldest multi organ animal ever. Umbrellas in shape and often referred to as the 'sea wasp', which carries the tag as one of the most venomous creatures in the world. Although they do not have a brain they are able to navigate around the oceans by using tentacles. These venomous tentacles can stretch for up to three metres, which causes a great risk to swimmers. If a swimmer is stung quick action is required as some cases can lead to death.

The box jellyfish is made deadly by the 500,000 harpoon shaped nematocysts that it possess on each tentacle. These deadly harpoons inject a sucker punch into its prey, which disables their nervous system and makes them an easy meal. The nematocysts also provide a deadly defence mechanism against its predators. Although humans do not fall into this category they are very much a visitor to the jellyfish's home, and often end up getting in the way.

One of the main dangers to humans is from the prospect of having a severe allergic reaction to the venom from the sea wasp. This can cause the body to go into anaphylaxis, which disables the respiratory system and ultimately results in the heart stopping. If out at sea resuscitation can be extremely difficult, and post resuscitation care is not always available. The box jellyfish falls into the heavyweight category of poisonous creatures in the world, and it is for this reason that it can also kill just on the weight of its venom alone.

As the box jellyfish is so dangerous the best bet in the first place is to avoid getting stung. This however is easier said than done considering the fish have an almost transparent / invisible appearance. The most deadly species roam in the indo-pacific region of the globe where they are suited to the warmer temperatures of these waters. Including regions such as northern Australia, Indonesia and Japan. If swimming or bathing in these areas it is advisable to where full body protection such as a wetsuit. This provides protection as when stung the harpoons do not make direct contact with the skin. It is also advisable to follow local advice on what seasons are safe to enter the water, and always be aware of your surroundings whilst in the water.

Inevitably stings do happen, and if they do occur prompt action is required to protect the health of the victim. Caution should be applied when handling tentacles as they can still sting after the being separated from the bell or if the creature is dead. One proven method with dealing with a sting is to pour vinegar over the affected area to neutralise the venom. Once the vinegar has been applied it is then safe to remove any tentacles without the danger of further venom being fired. The person administering first aid should wear gloves to ensure that he / she does not become stung themselves.

If the casualty is showing signs of difficulty when breathing then the emergency services should be called immediately. In more serious cases when a casualty goes into Anaphylaxis their heart can stop and therefore the first aider has to be prepared to give CPR until the arrival of the emergency services. Box jellyfish do kill so the first aider has to be prepared for all scenarios. Many beaches, but not all have a supply of vinegar at various points on the beach if they know the fish are present in the waters.

In the most serious cases where the casualty is showing signs of rapid deterioration an anti-venom can be sought. This requires calling the emergency services and stating exactly what has happened i.e. a young male victim has been stung by a deadly specie of box jellyfish. They can then prioritise and come to the rescue at the earliest possible opportunity.

Don't let the box jellyfish ruin your day when out bathing on one of the indo-Pacific regions many beach havens.

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