Portuguese Man-of-War Spotted: Beachgoers Warned of Toxic Stings

A highly venomous and increasingly common marine hazard-the Portuguese man-of-war-has been spotted on a beach in Puerto Rico, prompting safety alerts for swimmers and sunbathers. these siphonophores, often mistaken for jellyfish, deliver a painful sting that can cause serious reactions and require medical attention. Authorities are advising caution and vigilance as these creatures, propelled by winds and currents, pose an ongoing threat to coastal recreation [[1]].

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<h2 class="subtitle t24 font-NotoSans" style="">Highly Venomous Portuguese Man-of-War Spotted on Puerto Rico Beach.</h2>






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    <figcaption itemprop="caption" class="">An unwelcome beachgoer.</figcaption>
    <figcaption itemprop="author" class="" data-byline-prefix="Photo:">Pia Faarkrog Hansen/Canariajournalen</figcaption>
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This article was originally published by Canariajournalen.

Portuguese man-of-war, scientifically known as Physalia physalis, have been observed on a popular beach in Puerto Rico, prompting warnings to swimmers and beachgoers. The presence of these highly venomous creatures is a concern for public health and safety.

Despite their name, Portuguese man-of-war are not jellyfish, but siphonophores – colonies of individual organisms working together. They are characterized by a gas-filled bladder that allows them to float and drift with the wind and ocean currents.

Tentacles Up to 30 Meters Long

The creatures can be carried ashore by onshore winds.

On the Canary Islands, sightings are more common during the summer months due to the warmer water temperatures.

The bladder itself is relatively small, reaching up to 20 centimeters in length.

However, the tentacles can extend up to 30 meters and are covered in stinging cells that deliver a potent venom, even when detached from the main body or found on the shore.

Most people stung require medical attention. The venom can cause allergic reactions and skin lesions that may take months to heal.

How to Avoid Being Stung

The most effective way to avoid a sting is to refrain from swimming.

Stings can also occur by wading in shallow water or if someone is splashed with water containing remnants of the man-of-war.

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1. Do not touch the man-of-war or any fragments of it, even if it appears dead on the beach – the venom can remain active.
2. If you come into contact with a man-of-war, do not rub your hands on your mouth or eyes afterward, even if you don’t feel a sting, as these areas are more sensitive.
3. Heed any warnings or advisories posted on the beach (posters, signs, flags, verbal warnings) and reported in the media.
4. If you spot man-of-war and no warning flags or notices are displayed, inform the nearest lifeguard, control center, or local authorities (the Spanish word for jellyfish is *medusas*).
5. Applying sunscreen may reduce the risk of being stung.
6. Children are particularly vulnerable: ensure they are aware of the dangers and avoid swimming.
7. Children, the elderly, individuals with allergies, asthma, or heart problems, or those with a history of jellyfish stings should exercise extra caution.

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