Authorities are warning swimmers to be especially careful in the ocean during stinger season with records showing stinger instances in our region have already surpassed last years’ numbers and that we have over ten times the amount when compared to Mackay.
So far this stinger season, which runs from November through to May, local hospitals have recorded 13 Irukandji sting cases.
This is the same number that was recorded for the whole year in the 2021/22 season and we are only half way through the same period this year.
While Mackay have recorded just two Irukandji sting cases, Proserpine Hospital has seen nine cases, while Bowen Hospital has seen four.
Bowen Hospital Senior Medical Officer Dr Michael Reinke said the four Irukandji stings experienced in Bowen occurred at Gray’s Bay.
“We know it’s hot and that the best way to cool down is by going for a swim, but people need to be aware that there are stingers and jellyfish about,” Dr Reinke said.
“Protective clothing such as stinger suits and wetsuits will significantly reduce your risk of being stung.
“People should also try to swim in patrolled areas and know first aid.”
Residents are advised that it could be difficult to work out which species of jellyfish had caused a sting, so if in doubt, to treat a sting as if it was potentially serious by dousing in vinegar, carefully removing tentacles if present and rinsing with seawater, and seeking medical attention.
Symptoms of an Irukandji sting may not be immediate and can appear five to 45 minutes later.
Irukandji Sting Symptoms
• Severe backache or headache
• Shooting pains in muscles, chest and abdomen
• Nausea, anxiety and restlessness
• Vomiting and breathing difficulties
• In some cases heart damage and failure
First Aid Steps:
1. Call for help - Dial 000 for an Ambulance
2. Treat the sting - Pour vinegar onto sting, remove tentacles, rinse with seawater
3. Emergency care - Administer CPR if needed
4. Seek medical aid - Transport to hospital
Bowen Hospital Senior Medical Officer Dr Michael Reinke
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