Kelantan issues warning after six injured by Portuguese man o’ war

KOTA BARU: Six children have been stung by the venomous Portuguese man o’ war in Kelantan waters.

The Portuguese man o’ war is a jellyfish-like creature which delivers a painful sting capable of killing fish and even humans in some cases.

State Health Department director Datuk Dr Zaini Hussin said the incidents were reported in Bachok near here last Friday, with two at Pantai Melawi and four at Pantai Baru.

He said the victims, aged between one and 11, received initial treatment at Bachok Health Clinic before being referred for further treatment at Tengku Anis Hospital in Pasir Puteh and Universiti Sains Malaysia Hospital in Kubang Kerian.

Dr Zaini said the victims suffered symptoms of pain, swelling and itching at the areas of the sting.

“All the victims were allowed to go home after a medical examination found that their condition was stable,” he said in a statement yesterday, Bernama reported.

He said there is no anti-venom to treat the Portuguese man o’ war’s sting and that treatment provided is only to relieve symptoms such as pain.

The department advised the public to be aware of the presence of jellyfish-like creature in the state’s waters.

“Beach goers should not swim in areas where the presence of the sea creature has been confirmed until an official notification is issued. Stay away and do not touch the creature.

“If stung, seek treatment immediately at the nearest health facility,” he added.