Jellyfish Sneak Up on Cayman Islands’ Sand Bar

Jellyfish Sneak Up on Cayman Islands’ Sand Bar

Eight people were taken to the George Town hospital Wednesday after being stung by the dangerous box jellyfish, also known as sea wasps. In total at least fifteen visitors to the Sand Bar were stung by the sea creatures before the North Sound attraction was closed to guests.

The other seven people who were stung were reportedly treated at the location on the vessels which had taken the trips out to the Cayman Islands most popular attraction. The Department of Tourism said it received notice of the closure at 11:40 this morning, 27 April, and officials from the environment department’s Marine Unit are currently monitoring the area.

It is understood the jellyfish may have arrived en mass as a result of deep sea currents. Although the Caribbean version of the box jellyfish is not nearly as deadly as its Pacific cousin, it can still be dangerous. The regional sea wasp has a small, four-sided, bell-shaped body up to around two inches by 3 inches, and its four tentacles average about 12 inches long, one attached to each bottom corner of the body.

Although experts advise household vinegar as a treatment for undischarged nematocysts, which can then be removed followed by ice packs, anyone who appears to have a severe reaction should head immediately for an emergency room

Government officials say they will re-evaluate the situation this evening and again tomorrow morning before making a decision on when the wildlife interactive zone can re-open for visitors.