The jellyfish are organisms with ethereal beauty, belonging to the phylum cnidaria, a family that also includes marine anemones, gorgonies and corals, as fascinating as they are lethal. The jellyfish, as well known, are in fact equipped with defensive mechanisms that can cause annoying inconveniences to bathers, although they are not beings with aggressive behavior.
Usually, it is their own people who involuntarily hit the animal, who reacts by activating the defense mechanism: it is not a puncture, but the contact with the tentacles of the jellyfish, which activates the process.
The tentacles host cells called cnidocytes, inside which there are small capsules (nematocyst) containing both irritating substances and pointed spiral structures (spouses) maintained under pressure. At the time of contact, the nematocists attach themselves to the skin and the spouses release the stinging substances.
Recognize the invisible enemy
In the Mediterranean, different species of Celentrati proliferate, each with peculiar characteristics. Here are 3 different specimens chosen for you:
Pelagia Noctiluca, recognizable for violet coloring and the ability of night bioluminescence. It is the most common and problematic, responsible for the majority of the 150,000 annual bites in the Mediterranean.
Another very dangerous jellyfish is the Carybdea Marsupialis, belonging to the family of Carybdeidaethe so -called cubomeduse: it has a transparent cubic umbrella with four distinctive tentacles and among the most insidious species of our waters.
Particular attention deserves the Physalia Physalis, also called the Portuguese Caravella, improperly called Medusa but in reality colony of siphonophores, occasionally present in our seas – in particular, Spain and Sicily – with potentially lethal tentacles. Small curiosity: the Portuguese caravel lives only on the surface of the water, in a condition of perpetual floating.
Immediate intervention protocol
Upon the occurrence of stinging contact, the timeliness and the correctness of the actions determine the evolution of symptoms.
The topical application of an astringent gel based on 5%aluminum chloride, available in pharmacies and first aid kits of the bathing establishments, will effectively block the spread of toxins and will relieve painful symptoms.
For specific species such as the Carybdea Marsupialis and Chrysaora Hysoscella, vinegar applied for 30 seconds has shown scientific efficacy. The cold compresses, applied for intervals of 5-15 minutes, significantly reduce edema and pain through local vasoconstriction (never directly apply ice or other directly on the wound, but always wrapped in a cloth or something similar).
Fatal errors to be categorically avoided
The popular tradition handed down remedies not only ineffective but potentially harmful:
Alarm and medical urgency signals
Post-contemporary vigilance is essential to identify serious systemic reactions. The immediate use of 118 is imposed in the presence of:
The symptoms just observed can configure the picture of anaphylactic shock, medical emergency that requires immediate administration of adrenaline and advanced vital support.
Preventive and behavioral strategies
Prevention remains the most effective weapon against Medusa’s bites. Inquire at the lifeguards on the presence of shamans, carefully observe the water before the dive, avoid the bathroom after the storms, the case that transports the jellyfish to the shore.
In the event of sighting, move away with calm and regular movements, without agitation that would favor accidental contact. Finally, the use of a protective change, particularly useful in risk areas, which can ensure a truly effective mechanical barrier.
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