What should you do if you’re stung by a jellyfish?

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — Are you heading to Virginia Beach for your summer vacation? Here’s what you should do if you’re stung by a jellyfish, according to the Virginia Poison Center .

Signs or symptoms of a sting include red, slightly raised skin, itching and a burning sensation, according to the center.

If you notice you’ve been stung, the center recommends that you rinse the area with salt water, not freshwater, which can cause stingers to release venom.

The center says you should remove any remaining tentacles by applying shaving cream or a paste made of baking soda and water, then scrape with a blunt edge, like a credit card. You shouldn’t touch the area with bare hands, as tentacles can continue to sting.

You can treat pain with an over-the-counter pain reliever, as needed. Itching may be relieved with Benadryl.

If you or someone you know could be having an allergic reaction, which may present as trouble breathing, wheezing, or developing hives or welts on other parts of their body, call 911 immediately.

If you don’t show signs of an allergic reaction and you’re just not sure what to do, you can call 1-800-222-1222 at any time, as the line is available 24/7.

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