Three young children rushed to hospital after deadly Irukandji jellyfish was stung on K’gari – Fraser Island

Three children were taken to hospital in a rescue helicopter after being stung by a potentially deadly jellyfish in Queensland.

An elementary school-age girl was swimming near a stream on the west side of K’gari – Fraser Island Tuesday morning when she was stung by an Irukandji.

WATCH VIDEO: Children airlifted to hospital after deadly jellyfish sting

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Two other girls, aged five and nine, were also stung later in the day and all three are now being treated in hospital.

The Irukandji jellyfish is a venomous species of box jellyfish whose small size makes it difficult for swimmers to see and avoid.

Signs of a sting include a severe headache, shooting pains, nausea, vomiting, and difficulty breathing.

Experts previously told 7NEWS.com.au that the tiny jellyfish, which are just a few centimeters tall and almost transparent, can cause an uncomfortable sting.

“It’s not like you’re dying or you’re fine, there’s serious permanent damage,” said world-renowned expert Lisa-Ann Gershwin.

Three in 10 stab victims with severe symptoms are on life support, while one in four may suffer from recurring problems, including cardiac or neurological conditions.