KUANTAN: The public has been urged to exercise caution after hundreds of poisonous jellyfish from the species Physalia physalis, commonly known as the "Portuguese man o' war," washed ashore along Pantai Hiburan, Kuala Rompin, on Monday morning (Jan 13).
Rompin District Civil Defence Force (APM) officer Lt (PA) Muhamad Izam Ismail warned that the jellyfish, although dead, remain highly hazardous and can still harm humans.
He advised against touching, handling, or keeping the marine creatures.
"We received reports about these poisonous jellyfish from local fishermen. Upon investigation, we found hundreds of them scattered along approximately two kilometres of the shoreline. The matter has been referred to the Rompin District Fisheries Office, which also inspected the site.
"Based on their findings, the jellyfish belong to the Physalia physalis species, known for their highly venomous stings that pose a serious risk to humans," Muhamad Izam said when contacted by Bernama on Monday.
He added that the sudden appearance of these jellyfish was likely caused by a high tide phenomenon that occurred on Sunday (Jan 12).
"Lifeguards at Pantai Hiburan are monitoring the area to ensure visitors avoid contact with the jellyfish to prevent injuries. Meanwhile, Rompin APM personnel have removed the jellyfish from the beach,” he said.
The Rompin District Council, in a statement posted on its Facebook, described the severe effects of a Physalia physalis sting, which include intense skin pain, blistering, a burning sensation, redness, numbness, itching, abdominal pain, vomiting, and dizziness.
"This species, classified as a marine hydrozoan, is easily recognised by its translucent bluish appearance. Stings can cause symptoms within just three minutes. Immediate medical attention is strongly advised for anyone stung,” the statement read.- Bernama
