SOLOMONS, Md. — As the summer season kicks off and residents and tourists alike head into the water, there might be another creature already lurking: jellyfish.
The Chesapeake Bay is home to bay nettles, moon jellyfish, or common jellyfish, and lion’s mane jellyfish. All three types of jellyfish found in the Chesapeake Bay sting, and humans have reported jellyfish stings.
During the summer months, swimmers and boaters most often report seeing bay nettles, which have a bell-shaped, gelatinous body and long tentacles. Bay nettles are present in the bay from May to October, when the water temperatures and salinity create their perfect breeding environment. They’re most active and abundant in July and August when the water is warmest.
Since jellyfish are transparent, they can be hard to spot in brackish water, especially on a sunny day when they might just look like reflections from the light.
Some areas make efforts to reduce the jellyfish in swimmable waters by putting up nets. The town of North Beach put its nets up in advance of Memorial Day weekend, warning beachgoers that the nets can keep out larger nettles but smaller jellyfish “can and will pass.”
“Be mindful while having fun at the beach!” the post said.
Remember, jellyfish may make your swim less pleasant, but they’re an important part of the ecosystem of the bay and the ocean. Sea turtles, fish and yes, even bigger jellyfish, rely on jellyfish as a part of their diet.
So what to do about jellyfish? Experts recommend that you:
- Swim earlier in the season (May and June) and in areas where jellyfish nets are present.
- Kids and adults going in the water where jellyfish are present should wear a dive suit or swimsuit that covers as much of the body as possible.
- Use a buddy system to help you keep an eye out for jellyfish.
- Bring supplies to help you deal with stings.
Jellyfish stings are usually mild, but can be painful and occasionally serious. If you or someone you’re with gets stung:
- Carefully pluck visible tentacles with fine tweezers.
- Soak the skin in hot water. Use water that’s 110 to 113 F (43 to 45 C). It should feel hot, not scalding. Keep the affected skin immersed or in a hot shower until the pain eases, which might be 20 to 45 minutes.
- Apply 0.5% to 1% hydrocortisone cream or ointment twice a day to the affected skin.
- Watch the person who has been stung for any breathing issues in case of a rare severe reaction.
And no, you should not urinate on the sting.
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