What to do if you're stung by a jellyfish, and why you shouldn't urinate on its bite.

The last month of autumn in the Caribbean marks the start of the tourist season. Prices are still reasonable, and the weather and scenery are wonderful. The only thing that can ruin your vacation is poisonous jellyfish. The publication explains how to deal with this scourge. Travel & Leisure.

Late October and early November are an exciting time in the Caribbean: hurricane season (June to November) is still officially underway, but the peak of storms is already behind us. Many islands are beginning to come alive in anticipation of the winter tourism boom. High season lasts from December to April, but by late October, the islands enjoy pleasant temperatures of 28–32°C (82–90°F), water temperatures reach 27–29°C (82–83°F), and prices haven't yet skyrocketed—they're almost half what they were during high season.

But there are also downsides: sudden downpours and tropical storms are possible, and dangerous jellyfish are found in Caribbean waters. How do you treat jellyfish stings?

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One of the most persistent tourist myths is the belief that urine helps relieve the pain of a jellyfish sting. However, despite its popularity, research has long since disproved this notion.

In fact, urine doesn't neutralize the venom; on the contrary, it dilutes it and promotes the spread of stinging cells remaining on the skin, explains Philippe Sward, medical director of tour operator Altezza Travel. Instead, there are safe and scientifically proven treatments.

"The right thing to do is use vinegar," advises Sward. "It neutralizes the nematocysts—the microscopic stinging capsules—and prevents the release of new venom."

Sward, who has 18 years of experience in emergency medicine, recommends rinsing the burn with seawater instead of fresh water if you don't have vinegar. Fresh water can trigger the release of venom, while seawater keeps the sting capsules inactive.

"These tiny capsules act like miniature syringes. Many of them don't trigger immediately, but can be activated by irritation," he explained. "Freshwater causes a change in pressure, causing them to release venom upon contact, so a person can receive a second dose of venom after leaving the sea."

According to the tour operator's medical director, it's crucial to remove the tentacles using tweezers or the edge of a plastic card. Avoid touching them with bare hands, as the capsules could still detonate, causing the venom to come into contact with your skin.

In general, you need to act quickly, as the pain can be sharp and very strong in the first seconds.

"Always monitor your body's reaction: if you experience increasing swelling, difficulty breathing, or sudden dizziness, these are warning signs that require immediate medical attention," Sward warned.

Jellyfish inhabit all seas and oceans of the world, and some are significantly dangerous. According to the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the Australian box jellyfish is considered the most venomous marine animal in the world. It inhabits warm coastal waters, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region and off the northern coast of Australia.

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Swimmers stung by deadly jellyfish can experience paralysis, cardiac arrest, and even death within minutes of exposure, NOAA notes.

However, not all jellyfish are so dangerous. There are hundreds of species, and none of them prey on humans.

"Any contact with jellyfish is accidental," NOAA reports state. "Humans are not on their 'diet,' but when we find ourselves in their environment, we can become entangled in their tentacles."

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