Media Release
10 February 2011

Microscopic jellyfish return to Auckland beaches

Swimmers at Auckland beaches should beware of microscopic jellyfish stings.

Auckland Regional Public Health Service advises swimmers to take care at Takapuna, Cheltenham, Narrow Neck and Red Beach following reports of rashes likely to be caused by stings from microscopic jellyfish.

Swimmers should also take care on other Hauraki Gulf beaches as warm weather increases jellyfish numbers.

The jellyfish, which are too small to be seen, get caught inside togs and tend to sting skin areas covered by togs once the swimmer gets out of the water. The rash can become red, itchy and painful.

Medical Officer of Health Dr Simon Baker says, “The only sure-fire way of avoiding this rash is not to swim at affected beaches. So far, the cases have been from Takapuna, Cheltenham, Narrow Neck and Red Beach, but we suspect this will also be a problem at other beaches in the Hauraki Gulf.

Auckland Regional Public Health Service recommends:

• The only certain way to prevent being stung is to avoid swimming at affected beaches or to swim in a freshwater swimming pool instead
• Do not wear large baggy clothes into the water (but still stay sun smart)
• After swimming, remove your togs as soon as possible and then shower if you can – especially the area that was covered by your togs
• If you develop a rash, have a shower, and get into cool clothing. Calamine lotion may help
• If the rash persists, visit your local pharmacy – mild steroid creams like hydrocortisone can be helpful, as can antihistamine tablets
• If problems are severe or persist or worsen, see a doctor
• Don’t put the togs back on till laundered properly, as the jellyfish can still sting even after they are dead.

Little is known about the habits of these tiny jellyfish and until 2008 the rash was thought to be caused by sea lice. However, sea lice tend to bite exposed areas of skin, whereas the jellyfish normally sting beneath togs.

“We know this is the time of year that people want to be at the beach. We just want people to have the information they need to make choices for their own and their families’ good health,” says Dr Baker.

ENDS

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