As summer reaches its peak and more people visit Karachi’s beaches, marine experts and beachgoers have warned the public about the return of “Bluebottles”, also known as the Portuguese man o’ war.
Bluebottles are marine creatures whose stings can be dangerous for people. They are commonly found at beaches such as Hawksbay, Sandspit and other coastal areas during June and July. They look similar to jellyfish but are marine invertebrates.
Concern over the seasonal return of Bluebottles increased after a local resident shared a video on Instagram. The video went viral and showed how their happy picnic experience suddenly turned unpleasant.
Several people commented on the video and said they had also faced similar experiences at Karachi’s beaches.
According to experts, even dead Bluebottles and detached tentacles can still sting if touched. Their transparent blue colour blends into the seawater, making them difficult for swimmers to spot.
What to do if you are stung
Bluebottle stings rarely cause death, but they can cause intense burning pain that may continue for several hours. In some cases, the venom may spread to nearby lymph nodes, increasing the pain and discomfort.
People who are allergic to the venom may face more serious reactions, such as fever and shortness of breath. Such symptoms require immediate medical treatment.
If you are stung, do not rub the affected area, as this may cause more venom to be released. Carefully remove any visible tentacles while wearing gloves or taking other safety precautions.
According to Karachi lifeguards, some local people use home remedies to reduce the pain, including Multani mitti, cut onions and even petrol.
However, people should follow proper medical guidance and seek professional help if the pain is severe or symptoms become worse.
