Brits are being urged to avoid walking barefoot on the beach this summer as venomous weevers make a return to UK shores. As temperatures soar to a scorching 30C this weekend, many will be flocking to the coast for a day of sunbathing, sandcastle building and bracing dips in the sea. However, a nasty surprise could be lurking beneath the sands. East Riding of Yorkshire Council is currently issuing warnings via social media and erecting signs after discovering that weevers have returned to Britain’s beaches. Despite their comical frown and camouflaged skin, these small creatures pack a venomous punch.
Weevers bury themselves in the sand and possess inch-long dorsal spines which can deliver a painful sting to anyone unfortunate enough to step on them – potentially ruining your seaside day out. Indeed, those who have been stung by weevers describe the pain as ‘excruciating’, claiming it’s ten times worse than a wasp sting.
“We are currently putting up posters on noticeboards and sending out social media messages to warn people about the possible risks of stings from weever fish on our beaches,” a council spokesperson said. “We are urging people to please not walk barefoot on the sands during the weever fish season, just in case.”, reports the Mirror.
According to the BBC, Rosie Bullard, who operates a first aid station in Hornsea, treats about two children every week for stings incurred while paddling. She recommends wearing waterproof shoes and advises that anyone stung should immerse the sting in water ‘as hot as you can bear’ to neutralise the venom’s protein.
The NHS supports this guidance, suggesting rinsing the sting with seawater (not freshwater) and removing any spines using tweezers or a bank card edge. “Soak the area in very warm water (as hot as can be tolerated) for at least 30 minutes,” they advise. For those unable to soak the sting, hot flannels or towels are an alternative.
Over-the-counter pain relief such as paracetamol and ibuprofen is advised, but Brits should avoid urinating on the sting or applying ice or cold packs. “Do not touch any tentacles or spines with your bare hands [and] do not cover or close the wound,” the NHS warns.
For stings causing ‘severe pain’ that persists, or if stung on the mouth, throat, or near the eyes, one should visit a minor injuries unit. If experiencing certain severe symptoms after a sea creature sting, it’s imperative to head to A&E immediately (but don’t drive yourself).