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Sea Pests

Jellyfish often sneak up on their victims. Bathers are playing in the surf one minute and feel the sting of the jellyfish the next. Most jellyfish stings are completely harmless and do not pose a serious risk. They are usually more prominent in the warmer summer months. If you have been stung, go to the nearest lifeguard and (s)he will spray the area with plain distilled vinegar. Usually the pain and/or itch will be relieved in 15 minutes. If the pain persists a hot shower will help.

Sea Bather’s Eruption more commonly known as sea lice is a condition that has been documented along Florida’s southern Atlantic coast since the 1900’s. At times the sea lice are absent for twenty years, but reappear when the ocean currents shift. Presently in 2010, the problem is diminishing but still present. Typically sea lice may occur from Mother’s Day thru Father’s Day. 

Sea Lice is caused by miniature jellyfish larvae trapped under bathing suits, t-shirts, and even hair when in the water. If pressure occurs from exercising, surf boards, lying on the beach, etc., stinging cells are released causing itching, irritation, and welts. Some people do experience a “prickling” sensation while in the water, though itching usually starts several hours after being in the water and lasts 2-4 days, but can last as long as two weeks! Some people may have more severe reactions such as: headache, fever, and nausea.

At Palm Beach County beaches, sea lice signs will be posted when they are present. Swimmers should immediately shower after swimming, making sure your bathing suit is removed before showering. Bathing suits should be thoroughly washed with detergent and heat dried.

Use any treatment that helps relieve itching. Benadryl and cortisone cream may be helpful. For severe reactions call your physician immediately.

Swimmer’s itch appears as a mild rash caused by an allergic reaction to specific parasites found in certain birds and mammals. These microscopic parasites are released from infected snails. Rather than finding a host bird or mammal, the parasite instead burrows into the nearby swimmer’s skin, causing a rash. This problem occurs most frequently during the summer.