Bluebottles arrive at Surf Coast
Bluebottles Jellyfish have been seen on several beaches across the Surf Coast. Photo: DARYL EDWARDS
BLUEBOTTLE jellyfishes have recently been found washed up on the shores of several local beaches.
The distinctive blue creatures have already been spotted in Torquay, Anglesea, Barwon Heads and Queenscliff.
There has never been a reported fatality from a bluebottle sting in the Southern Hemisphere, but their stings can be very painful and also have the potential to cause serious health concerns for children and elderly adults.
Life Saving Victoria and Poisons Information Centre suggest that if stung, people should notify lifesavers or others nearby.
Sting victims should then wash off the remaining tentacles with salt water, or pick them off with their hands, as bluebottles are usually unable to sting through the tough skin on fingers.
People are then advised to place the stung area in hot water for about 20 minutes. This should not only relieve the pain after about 10 minutes, but also helps kill the protein in the venom.
People should also avoiding rubbing the stung area.
Life Saving Victoria advises that people phone Triple Zero (000) if the pain persists, is generalised, is the size of half a limb or more, or is on a sensitive area, such as the face or throat.
The Poisons Information Centre can be contacted on 13 11 26.
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