21/06/2022
by .org
Envenomation - PORTUGUESE MAN-OF-WAR
The Portuguese man-of-war (Physalia physalis), known in the Pacific as the bluebottle, is not a true jellyfish but a colony of organisms. The man-of-war floats in the open ocean, typically in warm waters without any means of propulsion, relying solely on currents and winds.
Man-ofwar stings usually cause severe pain, leaving whiplike red welts on the skin. Other reactions include fever, shock, cardiac and pulmonary failure and, in rare cases, death. Although painful, man-of-war stings often resolve on their own. Affected areas should be rinsed with seawater (avoid freshwater). If symptoms persist, worsen or show no sign of improvement after several hours, or if there are any systemic symptoms such as fever, confusion, nausea or vomiting, seek care from a physician. Find more information on marinelife stings and the treatment: http://ow.ly/Uz7n50HNgew
Alternatively contact the DAN Southern Africa Hotline for assistance
