When is Stinger Season?
Experts prefer not to use the term “stinger season” as this implies that jellyfish are only prevalent during this time. Stings have occurred at all times of the year, however are more prevalent during the months of November to May. November to May is therefore termed “high season” or “peak season” for marine stingers as they are more active and more numerous during this time.
What are my chances of getting stung by an Irukandji?
Rare. Out of the millions of “people days” each year in the Great Barrier Reef waters, in a particularly bad year, only around 100 Irukandji stings occur in Queensland which require medical treatment. However, getting stung by one of these creatures, regardless of how rare, can be life threatening and at the very least can ruin your holiday. It is therefore important to follow a few simple precautions to further lessen the risk of being stung.
How can I prevent being stung ? Wear protective clothing such as a full body lycra or neoprene suit. This is the number 1 way of preventing stings as suits protect up to 75% of the body & cover areas where stings more commonly occur. Not all suits offer equal protection – lycra or neoprene offer the greatest protection. Wear protective clothing, even if wading, as most box jellyfish stings occur when wading.
@annepann Thanks so much Anne & for the Fav....this lady swam for quite a while & I thought she looked super too. People were swimming without this gear, but, I wouldn't, even out of season.
