Chironex and Irukandji stings are potentially life-threatening, and it is vital to provide effective first aid as soon as possible.
■ Bring the patient to the beach as quickly and safely as possible. ■ Call (000) for■ If the victim is unconscious, commence cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) immediately. ■ Pour vinegar liberally over the affected skin for at least 30 seconds to deactivate the stinging cells and prevent them from injecting more venom. Vinegar is made available on many Australian beaches in marine stinger zones. ■ If you don’t have vinegar, wash thoroughly with sea water. ■ Do not wash with fresh water or substitute vinegar with methylated spirits or alcohol because they will make the sting worse. ■ Remove any remaining tentacles with a towel or gloved hand to prevent secondary stinging. (Do not use bare hands.) ■ Immerse the affected area in hot water (no hotter than the rescuer can comfortably tolerate, say 40-45 C), or apply a hot pack, 20 to 45 minutes. ■ If the pain is unrelieved by heat, or if hot water is not available, apply cold packs or ice in a dry plastic bag ■ Reassure the patient and keep them calm until medical help arrives.
