Swimmers Beware: Jellyfish Numbers Rising Along Jersey Shore

If you have gone to the beach here at the Jersey Shore, there is a good chance you have encountered a little character, the "jellyfish".

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Jellyfish are soft, jelly-like sea creatures that float in the water and move with ocean currents. They have umbrella-shaped bodies and long, stinging tentacles that they use to catch food. Even though they look simple, jellyfish have been around for hundreds of millions of years, long before dinosaurs!

Not only are jellyfish ugly, in my humble opinion, but they can also serve up a very painful sting if they get close enough to you.

Report Warns Swimmers as Jellyfish Activity Rises

According to Patch, "According to a report from ABC6 Action News, more and more jellyfish sightings have been reported in Delaware and New Jersey throughout the year. Paul Bologna, a biology professor at Montclair State University, told ABC6 that along the coast, there seems to be a “huge number” of mushroom cap and bowling ball jellyfish washing up on New Jersey beaches."

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Shore Visitors Urged to Be Cautious in the Water

If you do encounter a jellyfish, swimmers are advised not to panic. Avoid contact with a jellyfish, and maybe take a break from swimming and return in a bit. Check with your lifeguards for updates on jellyfish, but don't let them ruin your day at the beach. I've been to the beach many times over the years, and I haven't been stung by a jellyfish (knock on wood).

What to do if Stung by a Jellyfish

According to Patch, If stung by a clinging jellyfish (which are smaller jellyfish that can be found in bay and estuarine waters), the NJ Department of Environmental Protection (NJ DEP) recommends:

• Applying white vinegar to the affected area to immobilize any remaining stinging cells
• Rinsing the area with saltwater and removing any remaining tentacle materials using gloves, a plastic card, or a thick towel
• Cold packs or ice can then be applied to alleviate pain. A hot compress may also be effective
• If symptoms persist or pain increases instead of subsiding, seek prompt medical attention.