23 June 2017
Jellyfish are present in the waters around the Island, especially along the north coast, and there is a risk of being stung.
The following advice is recommended for those who have been stung
- get out of the water
- slowly pour seawater over the sting to help ease the pain
- apply a cold compress (ice wrapped in a cloth)
- local anaesthetic gels and other forms of pain relief can be obtained from a pharmacy should the pain persist
- avoid the use of urine or vinegar. This is no longer recommended by experts and may discharge the nematocysts (the cause of the sting) and potentially cause further stings
- dial 999 should anyone require emergency assistance
Officers from the Department of the Environment are working closely with colleagues at Jersey Coastguard to raise awareness of the risk of being stung by jellyfish, and of how to deal with stings.
Advisory signs are to be erected in the coming days.
Director of Environmental Health, Stewart Petrie, said "It’s important that those who swim or spend time on the beach are aware that jellyfish remain present in the waters around Jersey, especially along the north coast, and that there is a risk of being stung. Whilst a jellyfish sting is highly unlikely to have serious consequences, stings can be painful, particularly for anyone who receives multiple stings."
For further advice, contact Environmental Health on +44 (0)1534 445808.
gov.je