Portuguese man-of-war can show in right conditions at Jersey shore

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Beach season has just started in New Jersey. And while the beach is fun, we all take safety measures to protect ourselves from rip currents, UV rays, and, potentially, the powerful sting of a Portuguese man-of-war.

Here’s what that is and how to protect yourself.

What is a Portuguese man-of-war?

A Portuguese man-of-war is closely related to jellyfish, but it is a colony of multiple organisms, known as polyps or zooids, that form a single invertebrate unit.

Portuguese man-of-war are highly venomous. They can be found across the globe in tropical and subtropical waters. However, strays are now being found along the North Atlantic coast of North America, as far north as Canada, according to the NJ Department of Environmental Protection (DEP).

Officials in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, recently reported one of the venomous creatures washing ashore there.

Are there Portuguese man-of-war in New Jersey?

While not common in the past, in recent years there have been sightings of Portuguese man-of-war at the Jersey Shore. According to NJ DEP, they may have been dragged to the Shore by the Gulf Stream, a northward warm-water current that comes from the U.S. South and Southwest regions.

What to do if you are stung by a Portuguese man-of-war?

Portuguese man-of-war are highly venomous. If you are stung, expect severe symptoms and get medical attention immediately.

Once stung, remove any pieces of tentacle still clinging to your skin. Do not remove them with your fingers, use a stick or gloves. Then, rinse with salt water, but not ocean water, according to NJ DEP.

Antihistamines can help with inflammation. Cold water makes it hurt more, so use hot water when washing the affected area.

Juan Carlos Castillo is a New Jersey-based trending reporter for the USA Today network. He covers weather, and national events focusing on how they affect New Jersey.

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