Poisonous sea creatures which can cause ‘excruciating pain’ washed up on Pevensey Bay beach

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Poisonous sea creatures – often mistaken for jellyfish – which can cause ‘excruciating pain’ have washed up on Pevensey Bay beach.

A Portuguese Man-of-War, which is a marine organism called a siphonophore, can sting after death - according to Wealden District Council, which has warned people not to touch them.

National Geographic said its sting can be ‘excruciatingly painful’.

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A council spokesperson said, “We have received a number of reports that Portuguese Man-Of-Wars have been sighted on Pevensey Bay beach.

“If you find one on the beach, don’t touch it.

“Even dead man-of-wars or detached tentacles can sting.”

The NHS suggests people who have been stung to rinse the affected area with seawater – not fresh water.

Those stung are also urged to remove any spines from the skin with tweezers or the edge of a bank card, soak the area in very warm water for at least 30 minutes and to take painkillers like ibuprofen.

A Portuguese Man-of-War on Pevensey Bay beach. Picture from Samantha Griffiths SUS-220203-134554001A Portuguese Man-of-War on Pevensey Bay beach. Picture from Samantha Griffiths SUS-220203-134554001
A Portuguese Man-of-War on Pevensey Bay beach. Picture from Samantha Griffiths SUS-220203-134554001

The NHS also warns people they should not use vinegar, pee on the sting, or touch it with your bare hands.

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