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Marine life stings are uncommon in Komodo but can occur, especially when divers accidentally brush against reef organisms. Knowing the correct first aid response is important.
| Injury | Cause | Immediate First Aid | Seek Medical Help? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lionfish sting | Venomous dorsal spines — accidental contact with reef | Immerse in hot water (45°C) for 30–90 minutes; take pain relief | Yes, if severe pain persists or signs of allergic reaction |
| Stonefish sting | Stepping on camouflaged fish on seabed | Hot water immersion (45°C); this is a medical emergency — extremely painful | Yes — seek immediate medical attention |
| Box jellyfish sting | Swimming through tentacles at surface | Remove tentacles with tweezers (not bare hands), rinse with vinegar, hot water | Yes, if widespread sting or breathing difficulty |
| Fire coral burn | Skin contact with hydrocoral | Rinse with vinegar, apply hydrocortisone cream, oral antihistamine | Only if severe allergic reaction |
| Sea urchin spine | Kneeling or stepping on urchin | Remove visible spines with tweezers; immerse in hot water; vinegar may help dissolve fragments | If spines cannot be removed or signs of infection |
For venomous spine injuries (lionfish, stonefish, stingray), hot water is the most effective first aid. The venom proteins are denatured by heat. Water should be as hot as the patient can tolerate (approximately 45°C) without causing burns. Most dive boats carry a thermos of hot water specifically for this purpose.
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