Beach goers warned to be wary
Scotland is once again set for a busy jellyfish season this summer, according to the Marine Conservation Society.
Scotland's national telehealth and telecare organisation, NHS 24, is advising people to be prepared and to seek advice on dealing with marine life stings.
NHS 24 Medical Director Professor George Crooks said: "Most jellyfish stings are mild and don't require treatment, or you can treat them yourself. Any remaining tentacles should be removed using tweezers or a clean stick (wear gloves if they're available). Applying an ice pack to the affected area will help reduce pain and inflammation. After a jellyfish sting, any pain and swelling can be treated with painkillers, such as paracetamol and ibuprofen.
"Remember that vinegar is no longer recommended for treating jellyfish stings because it may make things worse by activating unfired stinging cells. The use of other substances, such as alcohol and baking soda, should also be avoided. Applying shaving cream to the affected area will help prevent the spread of toxins.
Professor Crooks added “The best prevention is to try and avoid jellyfish. If you are walking along the beach, be careful not to touch jellyfish that have been washed onto the shore. They can still be venomous so try to keep curious kids and dogs away from them.”
If anyone suffers severe symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, or if a large or sensitive area of the body such as the face or genitals is stung, they should contact 999.
Dr Peter Richardson, Biodiversity and Fisheries Programme Manager for the Marine Conservation Society, said: "This summer is looking like another bumper season for jellyfish in the UK, with several species occurring in Scottish seas. We encourage beach goers and seafarers alike to report their jellyfish encounters to the Marine Conservation Society website, and, as always, please look at the jellyfish, but don’t touch them, as some species, like the magnificent, enormous and orange-coloured lion’s mane jellyfish, pack a very powerful and painful sting."
