WHAT TO DO IN CASE OF JELLYFISH STINGS 

IF IN DOUBT, GET IMMEDIATE MEDICAL HELP

1. Stings from Lion's Mane jellyfish and Portuguese Man o' War can be serious and medical help is advisable.

2. "You can treat some stings yourself using first aid. But if the symptoms are serious – such as severe pain, swelling or difficulty breathing – dial 999 to request an ambulance immediately." NHS.uk

3. With a sting on the face or genitals, get medical help. These can cause serious problems.

4. Jellyfish sting pain is usually short-lived (a matter of minutes). If pain is lasting, get medical help.

5. Get medical help for babies and young children with stings.

First Aid options for mild stings:

Remove any tentacles and barbs - tweezers are good for this.

Rinse the area thoroughly with sea water - not bottled or tap water.

There is different advice about whether vinegar is useful. It is used as a treatment for box jellyfish stings (in tropical areas) and may help with Portuguese Man o' War stings but can also worsen stings.

Advice changes. Go to www.nhs.uk for their current  information on treatment.

This page is no substitute for specialist medical advice and treatment.

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