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Lifering

Shuffle feet into the water instead of stepping or running into the water.  This will prevent you from stepping ontop of something that will sting or bite you.

All marine lacerations should be monitored closely as infection may spread rapidly.  Signs of infection include:  redness, swelling, and increased pain. 

If there are signs of infection:  ocean injuries require different antibiotics than land injuries.  Be sure to inform your health care provider how and where the injury

occured. 

Other Important First Aid

Being prepared is the most important thing you can do.  Print off this "bites and stings" first aid sheet.

All marine lacerations should be monitored closely as infection may spread rapidly.  Signs of infection include:  redness, swelling, and increased pain. 

Blue spotted rays and 

stone fish like to "hide" in the sand.  Also the crown of thorns and sea urchins are not fun to step on.

If an ocean injury occurs, being up-to-date on tetanus vaccine is important.  

Doxycycline is the antibiotic of choice (for over 8 years old), Amoxicillin with clavulanic acid is the second choice.

*Not covered are bites from sharks and crocodiles.  Controlling the bleeding and evacuation would be first priories.  

*Disclaimer:  This site does not cover every possible species you will encounter on a tropical beach in Papua.   It is general and basic.  

If medivac is indicated:

https://www.internationalsos.com/locations/asia-pacific/indonesia

+62 21 7506001

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