Outbreak of purple jellyfish in the Aegean this summer – What to do if it bites you

The summer of 2022 is expected, like last year, great outbreak of purple jellyfish (Pelagia noctiluca) in the Greek seas, it is important to know the correct instructions for first aid, relating to the specific species. As the Hellenic Biodiversity Observatorythe outbreak of purple jellyfish in Aegean has started since October 2020 and is expected to last for about 2 more years.

The purple jellyfish is considered one of the most dangerous species of jellyfish in the Mediterranean. Her sting is painful because of the neurotoxin she has. It is recognizable by its four main and eight longer and thinner tentacles, along with a dotted “hat” and purple interior, while it has a usual diameter of 6-10 cm. When it is young its color is orange-brown and when it grows up it takes on this intense purple-purple color.

Symptoms after contact with the purple jellyfish
Nematocysts produce in human skin erythema, swelling, burn as well as sometimes severe dermonecrotic, cardio- and neurotoxic effects, which are particularly dangerous in sensitive individuals.

Specifically, the possibilities symptoms after spawning from Pelagia noctiluca are the following:

• Pain like burning, often intense redness of the skin, and in some cases the appearance of a jellyfish imprint on part of your skin
• Motion sickness
• Pressure drop
• Tachycardia
• Headache
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Spasm of the bronchi
• Shortness of breath

In rare cases, they may occur hypotension, hoarseness, wheezing, generalized angioedema – extensive urticarial rash, disorders of communication – consciousness level. Then the IMMEDIATE transport of the patient to the hospital is required.

First aid for stinging from Pelagia noctiluca
Various methods can be used for reducing the intensity and duration of painas oral/ topical painkillers, hot water and ice packs.

For bites from some species of jellyfish (Carybdea marsupialis, Olindias phosphorica and Physalia physalis) the use vinegar applied for a short period, to prevent the release of further venom under the skin, but not in this case. Vinegar, as well as fresh water, alcohol, ammonia NOT help this species, instead aggravating the condition and pain. This jellyfish is inactivated by slightly alkaline solution (baking soda dissolved in a corresponding amount of sea water) and not acidic.

Detailed care steps:

1. Wash carefully with sea water, without rubbing the sting area.

2. If available, apply a mixture of seawater and baking soda (1: 1) for two minutes to stop any further secretion of venom from possible tentacle cell debris left on the skin.

3. We use a plastic bank card or something similar (and not our hands) to remove the baking soda mixture as well as any residue from our skin

4. Apply ice on the sting for 5-15 minutes. Ice, or even an iced soft drink, should be in a bag or other casing, such as a cloth or T-shirt.

5. Check if the pain has subsided, and if necessary, put ice again for another 5-15 minutes.

5. If the pain persists, consult a doctor or pharmacist to prescribe painkillers or anti-inflammatory creams (such as 3-4% lidocaine and hydrocortisone).

6. MHN wrap the sting site tightly with bandages, DO NOT use vinegar, NO fresh water, NO alcohol, NO ammonia.

ERT

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