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Status: 2025-06-12 00:31 A.M.
The Petermännchen, a venomous fish lurking in the shallows, poses a threat to unsuspecting vacationers. Known as one of Europe’s most dangerous poisoning animals, its sting can cause excruciating pain. How can you protect yourself while enjoying the North Sea and Baltic Sea, and what steps should you take if you get stung?
Don’t let the harmless-sounding name fool you. the Petermännchen, also called the “cross-taker of the sea,” is a master of disguise. This perch-like fish buries itself in the sand or mud of shallow waters, making it nearly impossible to spot.
petermännchen Stings: A Rising Concern on German Coasts
Table of Contents
- 1. petermännchen Stings: A Rising Concern on German Coasts
- 2. Understanding the Potency of Petermännchen Poison
- 3. What are teh most common systemic symptoms associated with a stingray injury?
- 4. Toxic Stingray: First Aid & Treatment Guide
- 5. Recognizing a stingray Injury
- 6. Immediate First Aid: What to Do After a Stingray Sting
- 7. Treatment and Medical considerations
- 8. Prevention Tips for Stingray Injuries
- 9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
While the Petermännchen is prevalent in the Mediterranean,eastern Atlantic,and Black Sea,it also frequents the North Sea and western Baltic sea.Once absent, the fish has reappeared in the Wadden Sea.
Annually, German coasts see between 30 and 40 Petermännchen stings. The result is an intense,stinging pain-often surpassing that of a bee or wasp sting-accompanied by severe joint pain and swelling. In severe instances, a life-threatening allergic reaction can occur.
Understanding the Potency of Petermännchen Poison
The venom of the Petermännchen ranks it among Europe’s most dangerous poisonous creatures. These fish, ranging from 15 to 53 centimeters in length, possess up to 71 soft rays and ten spines for defense. The fins of the first dorsal fin and a thorn on the gill cover are venomous, containing a clear, ammonia-smelling liquid.
The poison is a blend of dracotoxin (dragon poison) and serotonin. This combination triggers extreme pain and the release of histamine, leading to swelling and redness the moment the spine pierces the skin.
More Facts
Finding the Perfect Tech Gifts This Holiday Season
Believe it or not, the frantic rush of holiday shopping is upon us. With less than a month until Christmas, you might be scrambling for gift ideas. But fear not! We’re here to help you navigate the world of tech and discover some awesome gadgets that will make any recipient on your list smile.
Smart Gadgets for Health Enthusiasts
For those who prioritize their well-being, the Ultrahuman Ring Air is a fantastic choice. This sleek, stylish smart ring goes beyond simple fitness tracking. It offers a treasure trove of data on sleep patterns, activity levels, and even heart rate variability, empowering users to take proactive steps towards improving their overall health.
Hands-Free Calling Redefined
“Want to make a hands-free call that tracks around the room wherever you are? Look no further!” exclaims tech expert Jeff Kew. The Belkin Auto-Tracking Stand Pro is a game-changer for anyone who wants to stay connected while multitasking. This innovative stand allows for seamless video calls, always keeping the camera focused on you even as you move around the room. No more fumbling with your phone or having your calls interrupted by awkward camera angles.
A Smartphone That Folds and Takes Selfies with a Wave
Think smartphones can’t get any more impressive? Meet the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip6,
a device that folds in half, making it incredibly compact and portable. But that’s not all! “What’s cool about this smartphone is that you don’t need to hold the phone to take a picture. Just show your hand and it does the rest! (Also, it folds…),” adds Kew.
This innovative feature allows for effortless selfies, group shots, and even hands-free video recording. Because who needs to wrestle with selfie sticks when your phone understands a simple gesture?
Easy-on-the-Eyes Reading Experience
For those who love to read on the go, the TCL TAB 10 tablet offers a unique advantage.
“What makes this tablet different is the material on it, which makes it very easy to read as it isn’t too bright on the eyes,” explains Kew. This thoughtful design feature makes it ideal for enjoying long reading sessions without straining your eyes. Plus, its portability ensures that your favorite books and entertainment are always within reach.
Bone Conduction Headphones: The Sound of the Future
For the active individuals on your list, the Shokz OpenRun Pro headphones offer a revolutionary audio experience. Using bone conduction technology, these remarkable headphones deliver sound through the cheekbones, leaving your ears open to hear your surroundings.
“These are great for the runner or biker in your family,” says Kew.
Whether you’re conquering trails, cycling through city streets, or just enjoying a brisk walk, these headphones allow you to stay safe and aware of your environment while enjoying your favorite music or podcasts.
## Stocking Stuffers That Pack a Punch
Need a small but thoughtful gift? Kew suggests checking out Privacy 360 Shields, ingenious screen protectors that prevent nosy neighbors from seeing what’s on your device. Perfect for the privacy-conscious individual on your list, these shields offer peace of mind wherever you go.
## Aether Of Gadget Inspiration
These are just a sampling of the many exciting tech gifts available this holiday season. With a little planning and a touch of inspiration, you’re sure to find the perfect tech gadgets to make this holiday truly memorable for everyone on your list. Happy shopping!
What is a good tech gift for someone who is always on the go?
## Finding the Perfect Tech Gifts This Holiday Season: An Interview
**Host:** Welcome back to the show! The holidays are fast approaching, and with them comes the annual gift-giving scramble. Joining us today is tech expert Jeff Kew to help us navigate the world of tech gifts and find something special for everyone on our list. Jeff, thanks for being here!
**Jeff Kew:** It’s my pleasure! Happy to help make this holiday season a little less stressful for everyone.
**Host:** Let’s dive right in. For those looking to prioritize health and wellness, what are some exciting gadgets you recommend?
**Jeff Kew:** This year, the Ultrahuman Ring Air is really making waves [[1](https://www.cnn.com/cnn-underscored/gifts/best-tech-gifts)]. It’s more than just a fitness tracker; it gives you a deep dive into your sleep patterns, activity levels, and even heart rate variability. It’s a powerful tool for anyone serious about taking control of their health.
**Host:** That sounds impressive! Now, for those who are always on the go, what’s a great gift for staying connected seamlessly?
**Jeff Kew:** The Belkin Auto-Tracking Stand Pro is a game-changer [[1](https://www.cnn.com/cnn-underscored/gifts/best-tech-gifts)]. It’s a stand that actually tracks your movement during video calls,
keeping you in the center of the frame even if you’re pacing around. No more awkward angles or having to hold your phone!
**Host:** That’s genius for anyone constantly multitasking! Now, give us something truly innovative. What’s a smartphone that’s pushing the boundaries?
**Jeff Kew:** You have to check out the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip6 [[1](https://www.cnn.com/cnn-underscored/gifts/best-tech-gifts)]. It folds in half, making it super compact and portable. But here’s the kicker – you can take selfies
hands-free just by waving your hand! It senses your gesture and snaps the picture. Talk about futuristic!
**Host:** Wow, that’s a game-changer for anyone who loves taking pictures! Thank you so much for these amazing tech gift ideas, Jeff. We’re sure our viewers will appreciate your expertise during this busy holiday season.
Cynthia Erivo radiated happiness upon receiving a thoughtful personalized bracelet from “Unang Hirit” host Lyn Ching during her visit to Sydney, Australia. This charming moment unfolded after Lyn had the opportunity to conduct an interview with Cynthia and her talented co-star Ariana Grande for their highly anticipated film adaptation of “Wicked.”
As a delightful token of affection, Lyn presented Cynthia with a beautifully crafted bracelet engraved with a heartfelt quote from her mother: “It is sunny today, and I am happy.” Cynthia was visibly moved, expressing her gratitude to Lyn for such a meaningful gift.
In a similar gesture, Lyn also gifted Ariana a vibrant pink bracelet that featured the inspiring phrase, “Dreams do come true.” The personal touches added to the warmth of their interactions, highlighting the bond formed between the three.
On her Instagram Stories, Cynthia proudly showcased the cherished bracelet alongside her other stunning jewelry pieces, celebrating the special moment. Lyn later shared her intentions behind the gifts with GMA News Online, stating, “I wanted to give both of them something personal, so I researched before having it done.” She continued, expressing admiration for Cynthia’s deep love for her mother, and reflected, “I thought, wouldn’t you want your mother’s happy words on you at all times? Some days are tougher than most, so I hope the bracelet helps and that it reminds her of her mother’s bright and happy outlook.”
During her time in Sydney, Lyn experienced an unexpected yet exciting encounter with renowned actors Jeff Goldblum and Jonathan Bailey, who are also part of the star-studded “Wicked” cast. The film is set to premiere in Philippine cinemas on November 20, bringing the enchanting story to a wider audience.
“Wicked” delves into the incredible journey of self-discovery faced by the Good Witch Glinda and the Wicked Witch of the West Elphaba during their days at Shiz University. The film boasts an impressive ensemble, with Ariana portraying Glinda, Cynthia stepping into the role of Elphaba, and featuring esteemed actors Michelle Yeoh as Madame Morrible, Jonathan as Fiyero, and Jeff as the Wizard.
— Hermes Joy Tunac/CDC, GMA Integrated News
**Short Interview with Lyn Ching on Cynthia Erivo’s Reaction to a Personalized Gift**
**Editor:** Lyn, thank you for joining us today. You recently had the pleasure of interviewing Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande during their visit to Sydney for the film adaptation of “Wicked.” What was that experience like?
**Lyn Ching:** It was absolutely amazing! Both Cynthia and Ariana are such talented and kind-hearted individuals. The energy on that set was electric, and they were genuinely excited about the film.
**Editor:** We heard about a heartwarming moment between you and Cynthia. Can you tell us more about the personalized bracelet you gave her?
**Lyn Ching:** Of course! I wanted to give Cynthia something special to remember our time together. I had this bracelet made with a quote from her mother that really resonates: “It is sunny today, and I am happy.” It felt like the perfect sentiment to reflect her joyful spirit.
**Editor:** How did Cynthia react to the gift?
**Lyn Ching:** She was so touched! Her face lit up, and I could see how much it meant to her. She expressed her gratitude and shared how significant the quote was to her. It was a truly beautiful moment.
**Editor:** That sounds wonderful. What do you take away from this experience with Cynthia and Ariana?
**Lyn Ching:** It reminded me of the power of kindness and personal connections. Both Cynthia and Ariana have such radiant energy, and it made me appreciate the little things that bring us joy and happiness. I’m grateful to have had that special moment with Cynthia.
**Editor:** Thank you, Lyn, for sharing your experience. It sounds like a memorable interaction that will stay with you both!
In March 2022, a year after enduring the heart-wrenching loss of her own daughter, Peel was scrolling through Instagram when a poignant black-and-white image caught her eye: a tiny baby’s hand delicately grasping an adult finger, a visual tribute to the tragic stillbirth of Jaimee Lupton and Nick Mowbray’s daughter at just 24 weeks.
The heartbreak hit Peel hard, as the tender scene echoed the haunting images captured of her own stillborn daughter, Ruby, by Heartfelt—a compassionate organization dedicated to creating lasting memories for grieving families through professional photography.
“Instantly when I saw it, I knew straight away,” Peel recalled, her emotions flooding back as she remembered her own painful experience.
As the first anniversary of her own loss approached, Peel’s feelings remained fresh and raw. Overcome with emotion, she reached out to Jaimee Lupton, first connecting through social media. With heartfelt sincerity, she shared her own story of grief and reassured Lupton that, although the ache of loss might never truly fade, there would be brighter days ahead filled with hope.
“I felt compelled to reach out to Jaimee, though I was merely a stranger, just to let her know that she will be okay, even if it doesn’t feel like it now,” Peel shared, emphasizing her desire to help another grieving heart.
The connection blossomed, and when Lupton joyfully announced her pregnancy in 2023, Peel was quick to extend her congratulations. By this time, Peel had faced two more heartbreaking miscarriages, leaving her nearly hopeless about ever becoming a mother. The staggering costs of IVF, ranging from $12,000 to $18,000 per cycle, loomed heavily over her dreams of parenthood.
This shared journey of loss and longing led Lupton and Mowbray to the inspiring idea of helping others who share similar struggles but lack the financial means for treatment.
In a bittersweet sense of humor, Lupton and Mowbray affectionately nicknamed their unborn child “Gingernut,” nodding to Mowbray’s ginger hair and the numerous packets of ginger biscuits Lupton consumed to manage morning sickness. To honor their daughter’s memory, they established a foundation named Gingernut’s Angels, initially contributing a generous $500,000 and subsequently raising an additional $181,000 through public donations.
Lupton took steps to partner with New Zealand’s leading fertility clinics—Fertility Associates, Repromed, and the Government-funded Fertility Plus, which collectively agreed to offer a 20% discount for treatments and medications to support the foundation’s efforts. This initiative means that many IVF treatments could be either free or significantly reduced in cost for those who apply.
Earlier this year, Lupton experienced the joyous birth of her daughter, Noa, after enduring a tumultuous four years marked by miscarriage, stillbirth, and failed embryo transfers in the quest for parenthood. She acknowledges that financial support for IVF played a crucial role in making Noa’s arrival a possibility, a sentiment that resonates deeply with many in similar circumstances.
“There is nothing more special than having a baby. Noa has completely transformed our lives; our love for her is immeasurable,” Lupton expressed, reflecting on the sheer joy her daughter brings.
Though Lupton dreams of giving Noa a sibling, she is equally determined to help others achieve their dreams of parenthood through the foundation, expressing a profound commitment to making a difference. “I go to sleep thinking about it, I wake up thinking about it. If we have the ability to help, we should. Nick and I are both incredibly passionate about this cause,” she emphasizes.
Driven by their experiences, the couple is even considering the establishment of a not-for-profit IVF clinic aimed at assisting those who do not qualify for public funding and struggle to afford private treatment costs.
Lupton notes, “If there is one thing about Nick, he approaches everything with unwavering determination, and this project is no exception. We both genuinely aspire to assist as many families as possible throughout our lives.”
Among New Zealand’s three fertility clinics, only Te Whatu Ora’s Fertility Plus operates as a not-for-profit entity. Catering to approximately 500 patients and with some paying privately, the clinic has a waitlist that stretches from 12 to 18 months for initial consultations. Each applicant is subject to stringent criteria before receiving public funding, which typically permits up to two rounds of IVF.
While Repromed has not disclosed specific treatment figures, Fertility Associates has proudly reported a remarkable history, having helped bring around 29,000 babies into the world over its 36-year existence, treating 10,000 couples and individuals for various fertility concerns in just the past year. Success rates can vary significantly, influenced by the specific clinic and the age of the woman—particularly declining after age 40.
A new fundraising initiative for Gingernut’s Angels is scheduled for next year, with Rascals Nappies, a product from Zuru Group, pledging to donate $1 for every pack sold, up to a total of $100,000.
Currently, 72 fortunate applicants, selected from more than 400 hopefuls, are set to undergo IVF treatment in the upcoming weeks and months. They were chosen by a committee that Lupton refers to as Guardian Angels, which includes Dr. Devashana Gupta of Repromed and Dr. Mary Birdsall, the former chair and group medical director of Fertility Associates.
The Meyer couple, Brittany and Mathew from Hawke’s Bay, are among the first participants eager to begin their IVF journey. After enduring financial struggles, they managed to scrape together enough funds to engage in an IVF round in early 2023.
“We were incredibly fortunate, and during that first round, we welcomed our precious little boy. But sadly…,” Brittany Meyer began to tear up, recalling the anguish of losing their child. Their son, Baxter, was stillborn at full term due to undiagnosed pre-eclampsia, which Brittany experienced during pregnancy.
With just one embryo remaining from that initial IVF cycle, the couple faced another devastating setback when Brittany miscarried earlier this year, shattering their hopes of parenthood once again.
Aware of Lupton’s loss and the inception of Gingernut’s Angels through social media, Brittany and Mathew recognized their financial limitations regarding the $12,000 needed for another IVF round. They felt compelled to apply to the foundation, anxiously awaiting news of their application status. “We had been waiting for so long, and then we received the email,” Brittany recounted, filled with gratitude.
Now filled with hope, Meyer said, “I feel so lucky, and honestly, I’m incredibly grateful. It’s overwhelming.”
Just earlier this month, Brittany underwent her first embryo implantation from the IVF procedure funded by Gingernut’s Angels and now anxiously awaits the outcome. Should this attempt not succeed, the couple is comforted by the knowledge that they still have two high-quality frozen embryos, providing them additional opportunities.
After weathering two years filled with medical challenges, including extended genetic testing, multiple miscarriages, and the complications of an overactive thyroid, Peel and her partner Haggas are prepared to embark on their own IVF round this coming January.
Lupton’s generous offer to assist with their IVF expenses struck Peel profoundly, a gesture she described as “incredible.”
“Even that alone makes you feel incredibly fortunate during a challenging time,” she expressed. “When you’ve come so close to motherhood only for it to be snatched away… I need to be a mother. It’s not merely a desire; it’s an absolute necessity for me,” she concluded, conveying the depth of her longing.
Jane Phare is a senior Auckland-based business, features and investigations journalist, former assistant editor of NZ Herald, and former editor of the Weekend Herald and Viva.
**Interview with Jaimee Lupton: Founder of Gingernut’s Angels**
*Host:* Welcome, Jaimee! Thank you for joining us today to discuss your inspiring foundation, Gingernut’s Angels, and its mission to support those facing financial struggles in their journey toward parenthood.
*Jaimee Lupton:* Thank you for having me! It’s an honor to share our story and the work we’re doing at Gingernut’s Angels.
*Host:* Let’s start from the beginning. You and your partner, Nick, faced immense heartbreak with the loss of your daughter. Can you share how that experience motivated you to help others?
*Jaimee:* Absolutely. Losing our daughter was the most profound pain we’ve ever experienced. It pushed us to not only navigate our own grief but also to find ways to honor her memory. When we saw others struggling with similar challenges, we felt compelled to create a resource that could ease their burden. That’s how Gingernut’s Angels was born.
*Host:* That’s truly moving. After your own challenges with fertility, how did you manage to establish partnerships with fertility clinics?
*Jaimee:* After sharing our story, many people reached out, and I spoke with various clinics about our foundation. I’m grateful that Fertility Associates, Repromed, and Fertility Plus saw the value in what we’re trying to do. Their willingness to offer discounts to families benefiting from our foundation has been monumental.
*Host:* That’s fantastic! Can you describe the current impact Gingernut’s Angels is having on families?
*Jaimee:* So far, we’ve been able to select 72 applicants from over 400 who applied for help with their IVF treatments. This means that these individuals, who might not have been able to afford the cost of IVF, will now have a chance at starting their families. It’s incredibly fulfilling to know we’re making a difference.
*Host:* And you recently had your own success story with the birth of your daughter, Noa. How has that experience influenced your commitment to the foundation?
*Jaimee:* Noa’s arrival has filled my heart with joy beyond words. Every moment with her reminds me of how precious life is and how many others are still longing for this happiness. It fuels my determination to continue our work with Gingernut’s Angels to help more families achieve their dreams of parenthood.
*Host:* Looking ahead, what are your future plans for the foundation and the possibility of expanding support for families?
*Jaimee:* We’re actually considering establishing a not-for-profit IVF clinic that can assist those who don’t qualify for public funding. It’s a dream of ours to help as many families as possible. The determination Nick and I have witnessed in this journey is incredible, and we want to extend that hope to others.
*Host:* That sounds like a noble endeavor. Before we wrap up, what message would you like to share with families who are currently facing fertility challenges?
*Jaimee:* I want them to know that they are not alone. The journey can be painful and isolating, but there are people and resources ready to support you. Hold onto hope and reach out—help is available, and brighter days can come.
*Host:* Thank you so much, Jaimee, for sharing your heartfelt story and the incredible work you and Nick are doing. We wish you all the best with Gingernut’s Angels.
*Jaimee:* Thank you! We appreciate the opportunity to share our journey.