Jellyfish invade Sand Bar
(CNS): Eight people were taken to the George Town hospital Wednesday after being stung by the dangerous box jellyfish, also known as sea wasps. In total at least 25 visitors to the Sand Bar were stung by the sea creatures before the North Sound attraction was closed to guests. The others were reportedly treated at the location on the vessels which had taken the trips out to the Cayman Islands’ most popular attraction. The wildlife interactive zone re-opened however, on Thursday morning after officials from the department of environment surveyed the area and found the jelly fish had moved away.
It is understood the jellyfish may have arrived en mass as a result of deep sea currents. Although the Caribbean version of the box jellyfish is not nearly as deadly as its Pacific cousin, it can still be dangerous. The regional sea wasp has a small, four-sided, bell-shaped body up to around two inches by 3 inches, and its four tentacles average about 12 inches long, one attached to each bottom corner of the body.
Although experts advise household vinegar as a treatment for undischarged nematocysts, which can then be removed followed by ice packs, anyone who appears to have a severe reaction should head immediately for an emergency room
For more information people are asked to contact the Department of Tourism on 244-0623. Updates will be circulated as soon as the zone is opened again.
Category: Science and Nature
Never experienced it here, only in Montego Bay. Not fun!!!
This is probably linked to global warming.
I was not working the morning tour in the North Sound and was unaware of this issue. I had a private charter this afternoon at the Sandbar, Coral Gardens and Starfish Beach; which went perfectly with no such incidents of “box jelly fish” stings at either of these locations.
The tourist’s were so impressed with the stingray’s at the Sand Bar and the private tour in general; and as first time visitors to the Cayman Islands…….. they clearly indicated that their next vacation will be the Cayman Islands once again.
Very nice family from Pennsylvania USA !!!
The Chinese will eat them!!!
I blame Big Mac.
blame him for everything huh..lol
damn expats
If you have never been stung by a sea wasp let me tell you that it is extremely painful.
that’s one nasty sting!