Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 23, 2026

Chromatin Immunoprecipitation in the Cnidarian Model System Exaiptasia diaphana
Published on: March 17, 2023
Heated Debates: Hot-Water Immersion or Ice Packs as First Aid for Cnidarian Envenomations?
Christie L Wilcox1, Angel A Yanagihara2,3
1Department of Tropical Medicine, Medical Microbiology and Pharmacology, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawai'i at Mānoa, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA. wilcoxcl@hawaii.edu.
Abstract:
Cnidarian envenomations are an important public health problem, responsible for more deaths than shark attacks annually. For this reason, optimization of first-aid care is essential. According to the published literature, cnidarian venoms and toxins are heat labile at temperatures safe for human application, which supports the use of hot-water immersion of the sting area(s). However, ice packs are often recommended and used by emergency personnel. After conducting a systematic review of the evidence for the use of heat or ice in the treatment of cnidarian envenomations, we conclude that the majority of studies to date support the use of hot-water immersion for pain relief and improved health outcomes.
Related Concept Videos
Methods of reducing fever
Pharmacological Methods of Reducing Fever:
Prevention of Further Absorption of Poison
Decreased Body Temperature
Hand hygiene
Hand washing...
Pharmaceutical Poisoning: Treatment Strategies

