Seabather's eruption

Seabather's eruption (locally known as sea lice) is an immune response to the larval stage of the thimble jellyfish, sea anemone, and other reef cnidarians. This reaction occurs mainly in the tropics and in Florida, due to the proximity of the Gulf Stream to the state. It should be noted that animals can be affected as well, and that a cortisone solution for humans can be used on dogs.

Additional recommended knowledge

Daily Visual Balance Check

Essential Laboratory Skills Guide

Weighing the right way

Identification

The reaction is identified by severe itching around small red papules 1mm to 1.5cm in size usually found around areas where swimsuits were in contact with the skin or hair, but not necessarily.

Treatment and symptoms

Treatment does not require a doctor's attention unless the case is severe, with most affected using a topical anti-itch cream (diphenhydramine) and a cortisone solution (hydrocortisone). Do not scratch the area, and avoid any clothing that may irritate the affected area; scratching will result in localized swelling and intense itching. Symptoms generally arise later after one takes a shower. It is unusual to notice the eruptions immediately. Symptoms can last from a few days up to 2 weeks the shorter time being the norm.

It is best to remove clothing before rinsing in cold water or drying off. Inactivated larvae may react to fresh water or lack of water, thus activating. The contaminated swimsuit should be machine washed, and dried in warm air.

Bahamas

At certain times of the year this can be a problem in some areas of the Bahamas particularly around New Providence.

Philippines

Seabather's eruption is also an issue in various parts in Anilao and Mindoro in the Philippines. This typically occurs within 30 ft. below surface, just above the coral reefs. Snorkelers are most prone because of their proximity to the surface. Scuba divers encounter less of this, and usually in shore dives. The occurrence of stinging is highly probable whenever plankton is abundant.

Thailand

Occurrences in Thailand indicate that the eruption isn't an isolated issue for Florida. As recently as October 2007, individual reports indicate that sea lice are present in the Gulf of Siam along the western coast area near Hua Hin.