Urgent Warning: Woman Hospitalized After Weever Fish Sting in Donegal

BREAKING: A woman in Co Donegal is recovering in the hospital after suffering severe burns while attempting to remove a poisonous sting from a weever fish at Linsfort Beach in Buncrana. This incident has prompted urgent warnings from local officials and health authorities.

The victim, who was bathing earlier today, encountered the venomous fish, which is known for its painful sting. The woman reported experiencing excruciating pain and later contacted local county councillor Jack Murray to raise awareness among beachgoers. She shared a distressing image of her injured foot following the incident.

Councillor Murray took to social media to issue a cautionary statement:

“This lady advises that the poison was so strong that she burned her hands removing the sting. Enjoy the beaches, but take care.”

Authorities emphasize that weever fish are often buried in the sand, making them difficult to spot and posing a serious risk to unsuspecting swimmers. The sting can cause immediate intense pain, swelling, and numbness, with the worst effects typically occurring within the first two hours.

In light of several similar incidents in recent weeks, the National Poisons Information Centre (NPIC) has released essential guidelines for individuals who may encounter these venomous fish. If stung, individuals are advised to:

1. Seek assistance from a lifeguard if available.
2. Submerge the affected limb in hot water (as hot as can be tolerated) for up to 90 minutes or until the pain subsides.
3. Immerse the unaffected limb as well to prevent accidental scalding.
4. Avoid cold applications, which may worsen discomfort.
5. Consider taking paracetamol for pain relief, while being cautious of thermal burns.
6. Examine the puncture site for embedded spines and consult a doctor for potential tetanus or antibiotic treatment.
7. Contact the NPIC at 01 8092166 if stung.

As the summer season continues, beachgoers are urged to remain vigilant and educated about the risks posed by weever fish. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the hidden dangers lurking in coastal waters.

The community is rallying around the victim, emphasizing the importance of safety and awareness on the beaches. Share this information widely to protect fellow swimmers and ensure a safe beach experience for everyone.