Man ‘O War have now been Found on Beaches in Worthing, Selsey and the Witterings
The Council is now advising people against bathing, in case more of the creatures appear.
`We don't want local residents or visitors to panic, we just want people to be vigilant,' said a Council spokesperson. `The first Portuguese Man O'War was found last night by our Foreshores Team, and a further eight cases have been found today. Since this has happened, we have informed local hospitals, the Harbour Master and West Wittering Estate, and have displayed our `no bathing' flags. Our Foreshores Team is also closely monitoring all of our beaches in case further creatures appear. If any members of the public do find a Portuguese Man O'War, we would advise them to refrain from touching it and to contact the Council immediately. If someone believes that they have been stung by one of these creatures they should seek medical attention.'
Portuguese Man O'War is often considered a jellyfish, but is actually a colony of specialised polyps and medusoids which live beneath a gas-filled sac called an air bladder. Experts believe that recent weather conditions have caused the creature to be washed into UK waters. The sting is said to be excruciatingly painful.
For more information logon to www.mcsuk.org
Southern FM: April 2009
