SFDI members are likely familiar with moon jellyfish that are seen off South Florida waters primarily in spring and summer. These jellyfish look like giant (dinner plate sized) translucent mushroom caps undulating through the water. They have short, delicate tentacles. If you brush up against these tentacles with bare skin you may or may not feel an unpleasant stinging sensation. If you wear a Lycra bodysuit are wetsuit, these jellyfish are of little concern. BTW, turtles like to dine on moon jellyfish. I hope you get to witness this sometime.
Also primarily during the summer months divers may feel the effects of sea lice. Sea lice are microscopic larvae of jellyfish and other stinging organisms that are too small to see with the naked eye. But, divers frequently develop rash like symptoms where skin was exposed to the seawater. The bumps and itch associated with this rash may last for a week or longer after the dive. Symptoms are very similar to those associated with chiggers that one may encounter in rural portions of the US.
During the winter months , South Florida waters may be visited by Portuguese man-of-war. The body of a Portuguese man-of-war looks a bit like a small blue or purple plastic bag that is filled with air. These nasty little creatures can ruin your day! They are typically seen floating on the surface of the water or washed up on the beach. At either location, beware of the 6 foot long tentacles that trail these bad boys. If you unwittingly come in contact with a man-of-war tentacle you will experience a painful burning sensation on your skin that simply doesn’t want to quit. Avoid these like the plague!
If you’re unfortunate enough to be severely stung by jellyfish, it’s possible you may need medical attention or treatment for anaphylactic shock. If, on the other hand, you simply want the pain to go away, try a saltwater rinse, a vinegar rinse, or a baking soda/seawater paste applied to the skin. Avoid rinsing with fresh water!
The Take Away: Reduce the risk by wearing a wetsuit, rash guard or Lycra body suit when you swim in the ocean.
Be Safe!