Are Portuguese Man O War jellyfish poisonous?
Are Portuguese Man O War jellyfish poisonous? The tentacles contain stinging nematocysts, microscopic capsules loaded with coiled, barbed tubes that deliver venom capable of paralyzing and killing small fish and crustaceans. While the man o' war's sting is rarely deadly to people, it packs a painful punch and causes welts on exposed skin.
Can a dead jellyfish sting you?
Never touch a jellyfish that's washed up on shore. Dead jellyfish still have venom in their tentacles that can sting on contact.
What to do if you get stung by a man-of-war jellyfish?
Caring for a jellyfish or Portuguese man-of-war sting
- Don't rub. Do not rub the tentacles with your hands, a towel, sand, or clothing.
- Numb the area, and wash. ...
- Use special care for eye stings. ...
- Remove the tentacles carefully. ...
- Use ice. ...
- Try medicines to control the itching.