Summertime and the living is easy, but it can also be hazardous. Swimming in the ocean, hiking in the woods, and sitting on the deck can mean jellyfish stings, tic and snake bites, or mosquito bites. Do you know what to do if you are stung or bitten?

Jellyfish Stings:  Lifeguards usually are aware of poisonous jellyfish, so ask if the area is safe. You can suffer a sting in or out of the water since the tentacles can release toxic material which penetrate the skin, even on the beach. If stung, immediately shave any remaining stinging cells off your skin using a credit card, dull knife, or seashell. Then rinse the area with salt water (fresh water can trigger more toxins) and apply a vinegar compress on the sting to deactivate the harmful substance. Keep the area clean to prevent infection. Topical hydrocortisone cream can relieve the pain and irritation.

Tic and mosquito bites:  Prevention is the best course of action. Mosquitoes can transmit West Nile Virus which causes flu like symptoms (low grade fever, fatigue, joint and muscle aches) and even encephalitis. Avoid wearing bright colors and colognes during outdoor activities. Eliminate breeding grounds in pools of standing water near your home. Use deet as a repellent. (Do not use on children.)
      Some tics carry Lyme disease, which can cause a red skin rash and flu-like symptoms. Early treatment with an antibiotic usually cures the disease; undetected, arthritis and complications may develop. Use deet on skin and clothes and wear long pants tucked into your socks, and long-sleeved shirts for outdoor activities, including gardening. Check your pets frequently.

Snakes: Most snakes will not attack unless threatened. While unusual in our area, venous snakes do occasionally bite. Be on the lookout while in the woods, wear heavy boots and long pants, stay on trails and out of tall grasses. Watch where you step and where you put your hands. For any snake bite, clean the area and watch for signs of infection. Venomous bites can cause symptoms that include severe pain, swelling, muscle cramps, weakness, nausea, blurred vision and convulsions. Call for help and get to the nearest hospital ASAP. Remove anything that constricts such as rings and bracelets, and immobilize the area. Don't cut the wound, use ice or a tourniquet; they can cause greater harm. Keep as still and quiet as possible to minimize the spread of the venom.

Sources include Consumer Reports "On Health", June 2002

Call Joyce for additional information.