one publication added to basket [252257] | Epidemiology of jellyfish stings reported to summer health centres in the Salento Peninsula (Italy)
In: Contact Dermatitis: Environmental and Occupational Dermatitis. Wiley-Blackwell: Oxford. ISSN 0105-1873; e-ISSN 1600-0536, more
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Keywords |
Epidemiology Nematocysts Marine/Coastal |
Author keywords |
Cutaneous reactions,; Jellyfish; Jellyfish stings; |
Authors | | Top |
- De Donno, A.
- Idolo, A.
- Bagordo, F.
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Abstract |
Background: The presence of jellyfish along coasts constitutes a potentially serious public health problem because of the toxic effects of contact with them.Objective: To determine the epidemiology of jellyfish stings in the Province of Lecce, Italy, in 2007.Methods: The study involved the gathering and processing of data on patients seeking medical treatment at summer first aid centres and hospitals along the coast of Salento following contact with jellyfish.Results: In 2007, 446 bathers sought medical assistance following contact with jellyfish. The spatial distribution indicates a greater frequency of stings sustained along the Adriatic coast, while the time analysis shows patterns related to wind direction. Most of the injuries were seen in persons aged between 1 and 10 years and in females. In 24% of cases, injuries were sustained to several parts of the body, while single injuries were mainly to the lower limbs (33%). In 4.9% of cases, there were complications, including one case of anaphylactic shock.Conclusion: In the light of the significant level of medical assistance provided, there is a need to identify suitable strategies that will guarantee the best response in terms of both prevention and treatment. |
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