2 days ago
Warning issued as Irukandji jellyfish sting two swimmers in northern WA
Swimmers in northern Western Australia have been being urged to take precautions after two people were stung by Irukandj jellyfish on Monday.
The sting of the jellyfish can cause severe pain, nausea and breathing difficulties.
Two people were admitted to hospital after swimming in the Ningaloo Marine Park.
They have since been discharged.
Griffith University PhD candidate Jess Strickland said two types of Irukandji were found in the Ningaloo region.
"Keesingia gigas is the world's largest species of Irukandji and they can get to over 50 centimetres long," she said.
"They sort of look like a giant rocket-ship.
"The more common species we get is called Mallo bella.
"It's a lot smaller — it's your typical sort of Irukandji jellyfish shape, so a small bell about the size of the tip of your thumb, and four tentacles, one coming off each corner."
Ms Strickland said encounters were most likely during the dry season.
"They're most commonly sighted from March onwards and we're seeing them through into August occasionally," she said.
Ms Strickland said the best way to prevent stings was by wearing clothing that covered as much of the skin as possible, such as a lycra swimsuit.
"They don't actually have a brain, so they're not consciously choosing to sting someone," she said.
"It's a trigger that happens automatically when the jellyfish would brush up against someone."
Ms Strickland said Irukandji delivered venom via a "sort of microscopic, harpoon-like structure".
"People are at risk of being stung if bare skin brushes up against them," she said.
A Department of Biodiversity Conservation and Attractions spokesperson urged visitors to "remain vigilant while enjoying the marine park."
"Wearing stinger suits or rash shirts can help reduce the risk of being stung," they said.
The spokesperson said any sightings should be reported immediately to Parks and Wildlife authorities.
The WA Country Health Service and WA Department of Health declined to comment.
