X-Nico

3 unusual facts about Irukandji syndrome


Carukia barnesi

Stings can result in Irukandji syndrome, and thus this species is commonly known as Irukandji jellyfish, although this name does not distinguish it from other Irukandji jellyfish such as Malo kingi.

The jellyfish was discovered by Jack Barnes, who, while on an exploration mission aimed at determining the reason for Irukandji syndrome, allowed himself to be stung by the jellyfish, while his 14-year-old son and a lifeguard looked on.

Irukandji

Irukandji syndrome, resulting from the sting of an Irukandji jellyfish


Magnesium sulfate

Magnesium sulfate has been used as an experimental treatment of Irukandji syndrome caused by envenomation by certain species of Irukandji jellyfish, however the efficacy of this treatment remains unproven.


see also