Kiwis are being warned to watch out for bluebottle jellyfish washing up on beaches across the country.
The Safeswim site, run by Auckland Council and Auckland Regional Public Health Service, is urging the public to "exercise caution" over jellyfish blooms.
Five beaches in Canterbury have been issued the safety warning:
- -Waimairi Beach
- -Sumner Beach
- -Scarborough Beach
- -Taylors Mistake
- -South Brighton Beach
Meanwhile on the south-west coast of the North Island, five more beaches have also been issued the warning with beachgoers advised to exercise caution.
- -Foxton Beach
- -Himatangi Beach
- -Otaki Beach
- -Paekākāriki Beach
- -Waitarere Beach
Bluebottle stings aren't normally deadly to humans, but they can cause intense pain which can last anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours. They can also cause a nasty rash and an allergic reaction.
Symptoms of a jellyfish sting include:
- -A burning, stinging sensation on your skin
- -A tingling or numbness where the sting occurred
- -The skin in the area where the jellyfish stung turning red or purple
- More severe symptoms can include nausea, dizziness, vomiting and difficulty breathing.
Self-care for jellyfish stings:
- -Flush the stung area with fresh water or seawater to remove the tentacles
- -If tentacles are still attached use a dry towel to remove them
- -Immerse the stung area in heated tap water for 15 to 20 minutes
- -Take pain relief following hot water immersion
It also serves as a reminder for all members of the public to carry EpiPens if they are allergic to jellyfish.
