While stingray spines contain venom, the tissue damage and possibility of infection may be more important considerations.

First aid consists of

• the application of local pressure above bleeding wounds (to stop bleeding),
• if it is still in place, don’t remove the barb – leave that to the staff in hospital,
• if the pain is significant and there is no bleeding then immersing the stung area in hot (but not scalding) water may reduce the pain (as for other stinging fish)

The wound should be regarded as possibly contaminated, and tetanus prophylaxis should be updated if required.