Pain is not a universal diagnostic feature of all jellyfish envenoming, though it is the most common symptom. This important response to stings by several probably related species of small and virtually invisible, tropical jellyfish is typified by mild local pain, usually without skin marks. About 30 to 40 minutes later there may develop the typical syndrome of cramping muscle, back and abdominal pains, prostration, hypertension and occasionally, pulmonary or cardiac complications. This is a most unpleasant condition and is potentially lethal. There is no antivenom.
Hospitalisation is essential for the full blown syndrome.
Early vinegar application is recommended for nematocyst inhibition. The sting is painful, with an angry red mark. Significant systemic effects are recently being reported from tropical waters. Return to page contents list Morbakka, Tamoya sp. Systemic envenoming may occur, including collapse, but there are no recorded deaths.