Posted on: Wednesday, August 11, 2004

Jellyfish may linger today

Advertiser Staff

It may be safe to go back in the water this morning, but beach goers with aversions to jellyfish stings might want to check with lifeguards first.

The city's Ocean Safety Division found 79 box jellyfish yesterday in Waikiki, and by 1 p.m. had treated six stings.

"That's a small influx," Rob Miller, an Ocean Safety dispatcher said yesterday. "We're not sure if there will be any around (today)."

Miller said lifeguards also treated a couple of stings in Makaha.

Box jellyfish, which hit beaches according to the cycles of the moon, are often found at Hanauma Bay and Ala Moana, and sometimes on northern and leeward beaches as well.

Persons with allergies or aversions to stings should stay out of the water on the days box jellyfish are spotted, Ocean Safety advises.

Stings should be treated with vinegar. Those who have severe reactions to the stings should seek medical care.

For more information, call Ocean Safety at 922-3888.