Clinging Jellyfish Sting In Shrewsbury River Leaves Man Hospitalized

OCEANPORT, N.J. (CBSNewYork) -- A man was hospitalized recently after being stung by a clinging jellyfish in New Jersey.

The man was stung by the dangerous jellyfish in the Shrewsbury River, CBS2 reported.

The clinging jellyfish is normally only found in the Pacific Ocean, and scientists are mystified as to how it got to the Jersey Shore.

Montclair State University marine biologist Dr. Paul said the clinging jellyfish has been spotted in Massachusetts near Cape Cod, but never before in New Jersey until just last week.

Marine biologists said the picky creatures don't like the ocean -- they stick to the bay -- and don't like the sunlight.

"It's only at night they swim up to the water column to feed, so the likelihood you are going to encounter them are low," Bologna told CBS2's Meg Baker last week.

While Bologna said an encounter with a clinging jellyfish is unlikely, if one happens, "We recommend white wine vinegar, we carry it on the boat."

The vinegar deactivates any stinging cells that have yet to be fired.

Marine biologists said the Barnegat Bay is a perfect area for the clinging creatures because they like quiet areas with grass beds and rock to hold onto.