The weather in Myrtle Beach is historically warmer in 2024 which is ideal for Sea Lice. Warmer August weather will see an increase in Sea Lice stings for swimmers according to the Florida Department of Health in Miami-Dade County’s website

Within four to 24 hours of a sea lice sting, itchy rashes and spots usually appear. According to a research paper on the Florida Department of Health in Miami-Dade County’s website, women wearing one-piece bathing suits and people wearing T-shirts in the water can be more susceptible to sea lice stings, which can be prickling.

Those who get in the water often suffer from blisters or itchy skin that causes discomfort, with some documenting their experiences on Facebook and Instagram.

The problem is rather common in summer months, as tourists and people living by the ocean have previously referred to it as ‘sea poisoning’ and ‘ocean itch’. It’s still possible for some people to wonder what caused the bumpy skin that they call ‘Seabathers Eruption’. Sea lice are the culprit.

However, these creatures share no relation to the insects that people sometimes become afflicted with in elementary school. Sea lice are usually baby jellyfish that sting swimmers once caught in their bathing suits, caps, or skin folds, according to Miami-Dade County’s Department of Health. Sea lice stings can also happen to those lying on the beach or surfing.

There are natural factors as well as peak vacation season that contribute to the prevalence of this phenomenon in Myrtle Beach. Cleveland Clinic reports that sea lice stings are more prevalent in warm water between March and August, when tourism along the Grand Strand is at its peak.

The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources reports that Myrtle Beach is home to several different types of jellyfish, and the Atlantic Ocean is expected to be particularly warm in 2024. A warm ocean could contribute to a rough hurricane season, but it could also lead to more stings for tourists.

Itchy skin areas are usually the early sign of a Seabathers Eruption, so Cleveland Clinic recommends not rubbing any tingling spots at the beach. In addition, Cleveland Clinic recommends rinsing with salt water after leaving the beach and before taking a shower, removing swimwear after the beach, and washing it as soon as possible after the beach day is over.

Swimmers who already have red spots and rashes should apply ice packs to affected areas, use antihistamines, and apply anti-itch cream over the counter.