KUALA NERUS: The public has been warned not to touch venomous jellyfish that washed ashore at several beaches in Terengganu.
Senior lecturer at the Faculty of Science and Marine Environment, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT), Dr Rosmawati Md Amin, said that although these marine creatures are stranded and separated from their colonies, the species known as the Portuguese man-of-war possesses thousands of stinging cells on its tentacles that remain active.
As such, she said the assumption that these jellyfish are harmless once dead and washed ashore is incorrect.
"Even though they may (be) unmoving... their stinging cells are still active and can release toxins upon contact.
"A sting can cause intense pain and other symptoms such as dizziness, body aches and respiratory distress.
"In certain cases, the sting can trigger severe allergic reactions, and victims must be rushed to the hospital immediately," she said when contacted on Wednesday (Feb 18).
Rosmawati also advised people to wear shoes or sandals when walking along the beach.
According to her, this species, also known as ubur-ubur api (fire jellyfish), is commonly found washed up on the East Coast, particularly in Terengganu, during the North-East Monsoon season because of wind and ocean currents.
"The use of vinegar to alleviate the pain of a sting remains a subject of debate and is only suitable for certain species. However, warm water is among the recommended treatments for soothing or reducing pain.
"Fishermen or individuals engaged in angling activities must also be cautious when handling jellyfish caught in their nets," she added.
Over the past few days, the presence of these venomous jellyfish has been detected once again at several popular tourist locations, including Pantai Pandak in Cendering and Pantai Paka in Dungun.
The marine hydrozoan is easily identified by its translucent bluish colour and a gas-filled float on top, with sizes typically ranging from 2cm to 10cm. – Bernama
