Jellyfish invade Sand Bar

(CNS): Eight people were taken to the George Town hospital Wednesday after being stung by the dangerous box jellyfish, also known as sea wasps. In total at least 25 visitors to the Sand Bar were stung by the sea creatures before the North Sound attraction was closed to guests. The others were reportedly treated at the location on the vessels which had taken the trips out to the Cayman Islands' most popular attraction. The wildlife interactive zone  re-opened however, on Thursday morning after officials from the department of environment surveyed the area and found the jelly fish had moved away.

It is understood the jellyfish may have arrived en mass as a result of deep sea currents. Although the Caribbean version of the box jellyfish is not nearly as deadly as its Pacific cousin, it can still be dangerous. The regional sea wasp has a small, four-sided, bell-shaped body up to around two inches by 3 inches, and its four tentacles average about 12 inches long, one attached to each bottom corner of the body.

Although experts advise household vinegar as a treatment for undischarged nematocysts, which can then be removed followed by ice packs, anyone who appears to have a severe reaction should head immediately for an emergency room

For more information people are asked to contact the Department of Tourism on 244-0623. Updates will be circulated as soon as the zone is opened again.