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marine
Irukandji Jellyfish
Carukia barnesi
Venomous
Description
Tiny jellyfish about the size of a fingernail. The sting itself is mild, but severe systemic 'Irukandji syndrome' follows 20–40 minutes later.
Habitat
Open coastal water, often far from shore. Nearly invisible.
Where Found in Thailand
Andaman coast and Gulf of Thailand, reported around Phuket, Krabi and Koh Samui.
Symptoms
- Mild initial sting
- Delayed severe back/muscle cramps (20–40 min)
- Vomiting
- Sweating & anxiety
- Dangerously high blood pressure
First Aid — DO
- Get out of the water
- Douse with VINEGAR for 30 seconds
- Do not leave the person alone — symptoms are delayed
- Hospital immediately
DO NOT
- DO NOT use fresh water
- DO NOT assume a mild sting is harmless