Irish Water Safety has issued a warning to swimmers, as the largest known species of jellyfish, the Lion’s Mane, has been spotted around eastern Irish waters recently.
Reaching up to a rather imposing 7ft in length, each specimen is armed with 150 tendrils, which can inflict a serious sting and pose a fatal risk for those who may be highly susceptible to its venom.
Swimmers in Louth, Meath, Dublin, Wicklow and Wexford should be careful while in the water.
If you’re unfortunate enough to get stung, wash the wound with salt water and remove the tentacles as soon as possible, then place a dry cold pack against it.
The pain should subside in three to five days, if it does not, consult with your doctor.