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BRADES, Montserrat (June 11, 2010) – The Ministry of Health is asking
the public to be vigilant when bathing in the sea at this time of year,
as it is the season when the population of jellyfish increases, thus
increasing the likelihood of persons being stung.
According to Ms Dorothea Hazel, Epidemiologist and Health Planner in
the Ministry of Health, at least 14 persons were treated for jellyfish
stings last Sunday after bathing at Little Bay beach. Other cases were
reported from Woodlands beach later in the week.
Jellyfish
appear as clear/or almost transparent objects in the water (resembling
clear plastic bags). They may appear singly or in groups. When they
make contact with humans, jelly fish release a toxin which can have a
mild or severe consequence.
The symptoms associated with being
stung by jelly fish include:
·
Intense stinging pain, itching, rash and raised welts on the skin;
· Some
persons develop nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain and numbness
in the affected areas; and
·
Persons who have severe reactions to the toxin may develop difficulty
breathing and serious complications which can result in death.
Hazel recommends that persons who are stung by jellyfish should
seek medical attention especially if there is intense pain, difficulty
breathing or swallowing. “While on your way to the Casualty Department
persons are advised not to rub the area where they have been bitten, or
to apply ice or hot water. The best home remedy is the application of
vinegar to the affected area of the body.”
These additional
preventative measures are also recommended:
- Avoid swimming in areas known to be infested with jelly
fish;
- Keep an eye out for jelly fish swimming on the
surface of the water;
- Be prepared to treat stings - during
“jelly fish season” take alcohol or vinegar with you as part of a
first aid kit when going to the beach.
ENDS
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