This is Ocean Safety message for Thursday afternoon, January 27th.
The Department of Land and Natural Resources reports box jellyfish at Spencer Beach Park in South Kohala and at other West Hawaii beaches on Hawaii Island.
Box jellyfish are small and nearly colorless making them difficult to see. Seven to ten days following a full moon, which last occurred January 17th, box jellyfish come close to shore that can pose a possible hazard.
Box jellyfish venom is poisonous. In extreme cases, the venom can cause paralysis, cardiac arrest, and even death.
Beach-goers, swimmers, and surfers:
• Exercise caution and heed all instructions given by ocean safety officials and beach park staff.
• Avoid entering the water where box jellyfish are present.
• Keep vinegar in your first aid kit and available.
For more information about box jellyfish, please visit this link: https://www.hawaii.edu/news/2017/03/20/uh-researchers-current-jellyfish-sting-recommendations-can-worsen-stings/