Beware: The Pica Pica are here again! Should never be here this time of year but many people are covered with the rash. After you are in the ocean get out of whatever you are wearing as quickly as possible and wash yourself and the clothing in fresh water.
Pica Pica is the larva stage of a tiny brown jellyfish. The Jelly's and larva float on and near the surface. If the larva is trapped inside some clothing they eat on you.
I dove with a T-shirt on and left it on for several hours. I look like I have posion oak.
THE GOOD NEWS: San Pedro has a public health free clinic. I have never had better treatment anyplace. The ask for a donation from those who can afford it. I was seen by a doctor, given an injection by a nurse and dispensed two oral medications and cortizone 2% cream - all free. Yes, I made a donation. It makes me feel very safe he.
In less than 24 hours my rash was down to the point I could again dive.
Many of the locals are also suffering.
Harriette

I'm coming down in two days...any last minute advice on what to bring to avoid the pica pica? I'm heading to Walmart tomorrow to stock up on all the goods

Thanks,
teacher

HOw long does the "pica pica" larva stage last? In other words, how long will they being doing funky things in the water: days, weeks, what? Anyone know?

So...if everybody dives and snorkels naked, we won't get it?

Susan is right. Seriously, wear as little as possible and cover yourself with oil. Alot of locals use vasoline, but that is very sticky. I prefer an oil based sun lotion or any other oil that you have.

You could always try a product called Safe Sea that has been especially developed to prevent the stings. It also includes a sunblock. Look at www.nidaria.com



[This message has been edited by seashell (edited 05-30-2002).]

I've also heard good things about safe sea.Have fun and dive safe!

How long do these things hang around?

I understand this rash is something nobody would welcome but the oils and such in sunscreen, vaseline, tanning products etc. do not do the coral reef and it's inhabitants any favors. I wish I had a solution that worked to the benefit of all but I do not. If you must use these products in the water - PLEASE - use them sparingly as the reef is truly a treasure. Thanks!!!

Hmmmm...that's an interesting concept (that the coral reef is damaged by the sunscreens used by snrkelers....) I had mot previously been aware of such a causal relationship.
I assume that your warning is based on scientific data demonstrating this. If so please post the URL's where the data upon which you rely can be found.