GARDEN ROUTE NEWS - Did you know?
Most bluebottle stings occur while swimming. Bluebottles aren't a single animal. They're a floating colony of individual organisms and are cast ashore by strong onshore winds.
The sting
The sting of a bluebottle causes severe pain and often leaves a rash. Flush the stung area with salt or sea water to remove the tentacles.
Use a dry towel if tentacles are still attached. Immerse the stung area in heated tap water for 15 to 20 minutes and take some pain relief and mild antihistamine like Allergex.
A good antihistamine cream or gel can help for the swelling.
Tips: A pinch of Epsom salts in hot water can help; cold packs can do wonders too. Do not use vinegar as it increases the toxic effects - rather use alcohol (methylated spirits or liquor) and try to avoid rubbing. The crushed leaf of the Carpobrotus edulis (sour fig), a coastal plant, is a famous cure for bluebottle stings.
Do NOT:
- Allow your children to swim in the ocean if there are bluebottles present
- Rub the sting area with sand or vinegar
- Worry if your child is screaming in pain - the sting of the bluebottle we encounter locally is not deadly to humans.
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