Stunning jellyfish photographed on Sunderland beach as warning issued

Mick Naisbitt photographed the mesmerizing jellyfish while walking along Ryhope beach over the weekend.

It follows numerous reports from visitors of the sea creatures washing up on shores along the North East coast in recent weeks.

The 45-year-old has warned visitors about the dangers of jellyfish as, whether they are dead or alive, they can still sting both in and outside of the water.

The impact of the sting varies from person to person and different jellyfish cause a more painful sting than others.

Mick, a salesman, said: “All of the ones I saw appeared to be bluefire jellyfish, ranging from very young (hardly any colour) to fully mature (deep blue, sometimes almost purple).

“They are usually just called blue jellyfish for obvious reasons, their sting is comparable to a mild nettle sting and is reported as sometimes only registering on sensitive skin.

“But as with all jellyfish, whether dead or alive, if their stingers are hydrated then they can still sting.”

He has also warned dog owners after a beloved pet was reportedly stung in the mouth on Seaton Sluice beach, in Northumberland, last week.

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

According to NHS advice, most stings from sea creatures in the UK are not serious and can be treated with first aid.

Sometimes you may need to go to hospital, or ask a lifeguard or someone with first aid training for help.

Here’s what you should do:

Rinse the affected area with seawater (not fresh water) Remove any spines from the skin using tweezers or the edge of a bank card Soak the area in very warm water (as hot as can be tolerated) for at least 30 minutes – use hot flannels or towels if you cannot soak it Take painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen

You should not use vinegar, apply ice or a cold pack, cover the wound or touch any of the spines. And contrary to popular belief, do NOT urinate on the sting.

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