Is There Such a Thing as Sea Lice?

It's caused by jellyfish larvae in the ocean that get trapped in your bathing suit.

Have you ever spent the day at the beach and returned with a rash under your suit? Well, you are either going to be relieved or wish you had not heard of this…

It may be sea lice. But, it’s not like head lice. It’s caused by jellyfish larvae in the ocean that get trapped in your bathing suit and sting you. The itch usually starts after you get out of the water. Doctors think the jellyfish larvae get trapped under your suit and the pressure makes them sting you. There’s no sure way to prevent it. Outbreaks come and go and most often in Florida but it can be in our waters too.

To help prevent the rash, take your suit off as soon as you can and get in the shower. Don’t jump into a pool with your suit on the fresh water will make them sting again and could make it worse. Wash your suit in hot water and toss it into the dryer to make sure all the larvae are gone. Most rashes can be treated at home with hydrocortison or calamine lotion. But, you may need to see your doctor for something stronger.