MIAMI, Florida – During the last week of December 2024, winds have blown Portuguese Man-of-War, also known as Blue Bottles, onto popular tourist beaches along South Florida’s east coast.
According to social media reports and photos, the manowar jellyfish appear to be most concentrated in South Florida near Del Ray Beach in Palm Beach County, but sightings have also occurred from Jensen Beach to Biscayne Bay and the Florida Keys.
Frequently, the Portuguese Man-of-War become entangled in seaweed, making it difficult for beachgoers to spot the stinging marine life before it is too late.
The Portuguese Man-of-War is distinguished from other jellyfish in Florida by its translucent blue and purple gas-filled air sac, which serves as a wind-driven sail, allowing them to travel long distances across the ocean.
A stinging tentacle cluster mass beneath the body can have tentacles that extend up to ten or fifteen feet, capturing small prey such as fish.
Jellyfish Sting Remedy
Rinse the jellyfish sting with vinegar.
Do not rinse the area with fresh water, as this will cause the stingers to fire more venom into the victim.
Sometimes the tentacles will remain stuck to the skin, and it is best to physically remove them from the victim as soon as possible using tweezers.
If tweezers are not available, use a gloved hand, towel, or the dull edge of a plastic card.
Most jellyfish stings, while extremely painful, are relatively minor and will subside after a few minutes.
If a jellyfish sting causes fainting, shortness of breath, chest pain, scratchy throat, or hives on the skin in areas other than the sting site, these symptoms may indicate a more serious reaction. Call 911 immediately and, if possible, contact the nearest lifeguard.
