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Symptom Checker

Jellyfish Stings

A jellyfish sting happens when microscopic stinging cells on a jellyfish tentacle release venom into the skin. The sting can cause immediate burning pain, redness and raised marks.

Different jellyfish species produce different types of venom. The severity of a reaction depends on the species, the amount of skin exposed and the child’s sensitivity to the venom.

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AAP Guide to Jellyfish Stings

The AAP guide below explains first aid, pain relief and which reactions need emergency care.

AAP Symptom CheckerJellyfish stings

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When to see a doctor

Contact your pediatrician or another healthcare professional if:

  • Pain is severe or continues despite appropriate first aid.
  • A large area of the body was stung.
  • The face or eye was involved.
  • Your child develops worsening swelling, vomiting or other symptoms beyond the skin.

Call 911 or get emergency care if:

  • Your child has trouble breathing, chest pain or collapse.
  • Your child develops a severe allergic reaction.
  • You think your child has a life-threatening emergency.

Talk to a nurse now, at any hour

When can my child be seen

Be seen today.

Every office keeps same-day appointments for illness and injury.

This evening or at the weekend.

Most offices run After Hours Care, by appointment rather than walk-in.

If you are worried, call. We would rather answer a question that turns out to be nothing.

More on bites and stings

See the rest of this group and all 164 symptoms