BluebottlesBluebottle or Portuguese man o’war

The Bluebottle is not a single animal but a colony of four kinds of highly modified and interdependent individuals (polyps) concerned with catching and digesting food and reproduction. They are connected and supported by a float.
Bluebottles up are found in all Australian coastal waters.

Prevention

Keep your eyes peeled and do not enter the water if you see a Bluebottle.

 Symptoms

  • Intense pain lasting from a few minutes to many hours and develops into a dull ache which then spreads to surrounding joints.
  • A red line with small white lesions in the affected area with blisters and weals in severe cases
  • White lesions and red weals.
  • Shock and respiratory distress.

Treatment

  • Remove the tentacles, with tweezers.
  • Immerse the affected area in hot water (45 degrees Celsius) for 20 minutes
  • Offer painkillers
  • Seek medical attention