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In the sea: watch out for dangerous marine animals
Vives, scorpion fish, rays: thorny fish
La vive is the fish responsible for most of the poisoning in mainland France. Very present on the coasts, it is often found buried in the sand, leaving only its poisonous thorns protruding. The lionfish is found near sand or rocks, sometimes at shallow depth. It has thorns on the head and fins. Rays have a poisonous sting at the tail. For these three fish, the signs of envenomation are the same: violent pain, swelling at the level of the wound which can take on a livid or purplish aspect and bleed, malaise, anguish, chills, respiratory or digestive disorders, even nightmares.
What to do in the event of a bite?
To destroy the venom, it is necessary to approach as close and as quickly as possible to the bite a source of heat (or very hot water), then to disinfect the wound. If the pain persists or a fragment of a sting seems to be stuck, it is imperative to consult a doctor.
Sea urchins: sandals quickly
The sea urchins that inhabit the French coasts are not poisonous. However, they have quills that can penetrate and break the skin. They then cause severe pain in the wound, which must be immediately disinfected.
What to do in the event of a bite?
To remove any debris from thorns, it is recommended to use a thick adhesive tape, to apply delicately and then to peel off. You can also opt more simply for the tweezers. Help from a doctor may be needed. The best way to protect yourself from sea urchins: wearing sandals for the whole family.
Jellyfish: who rubs it bites it
On the jellyfish side, it is the pelagic, proliferating on the Mediterranean coasts, which is the most irritating species in French waters. When the presence of jellyfish is known, it is better to avoid swimming, especially for children. On contact, they cause redness, itching and burning. To relieve the pain, rinse the affected area thoroughly with sea water (and especially not fresh water which bursts stinging bubbles, which release more venom).
What to do in case of contact?
To remove all of the stinging cells, gently rub the skin with hot sand or shaving foam. Finally, apply a calming or antihistamine ointment locally. If pain persists, see a doctor. Finally, exit the myth of urine to disinfect the wound, because the risks of sepsis are real. Also watch out for jellyfish washed up on the beach: even dead, they continue to be poisonous for several hours.
Sea anemones: beware, it burns
We look but we do not touch! As pretty as they are, sea anemones are no less stinging. Also called sea nettles, they cause a slight burn on contact, often not very serious.
What to do for burns ?
Usually, a seawater rinse of the affected area is sufficient. If the burn persists, apply an anti-inflammatory ointment and, as a last resort, consult a doctor. Warning: in the event of a second envenomation to the sea anemone, an anaphylactic shock (severe allergic reaction) typically occurs: it is then necessary to alert the emergency services.
Moray eels: to be observed from a distance
Disturbing, the moray eels fascinate divers, who cannot help but observe them. Long and robust, they live hidden in the rocks, and attack only if they feel threatened. Hence the need to stay at a distance to watch them. The moray eels of the Mediterranean coast are not very poisonous, but their large teeth sometimes contain some food stains where bacteria proliferate.
What to do if bitten ?
If you have been attacked, disinfect the wound properly. Signs of anxiety, accompanied by chills, may temporarily appear. Consult a doctor if symptoms persist.