Swimmers are being advised to be cautious after the discovery of two Portuguese Man O' War jellyfish on Worthing beaches.
Adur and Worthing councils are advising bathers to be cautious when swimming or paddling in the sea.
A spokeswoman said the jellyfish may also be washed ashore on the beach so people need to be aware and keep their eyes open.
The spokeswoman added: "This jellyfish has a painful sting and should be washed straight away with water, either salt or fresh.
"For severe pain, try applying heat or cold, which ever feels better, to the casualty. Do not use vinegar."
If any other symptoms develop, people are advised to seek medical attention straight away.
Worthing foreshore inspector Mac Skeet said: "We don't wont to be alarmist. If you are careful and keep a good look out, all should be well.
A spokeswoman for Worthing Hospital said it regularly treated people for jellyfish stings in the summer, but that there was no record of any patients stung by the Man O' War.
Not strictly a jellyfish, the Man O' War is a siphonophore - a
colony of organisms resembling jellyfish.
In the last two summers, about 20 Man O' War have been discovered along the south west coast of England.
Anyone who spots a Man O' War should call the Worthing beach office on 01903 238977.
*Did you see the Man O' War on Worthing beaches? Call the Herald newsdesk on 01903 282357.
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