What is the shortest documented time to collapse and death following a severe sting by Chironex fleckeri in Australia?
Answer
Five minutes
In the most extreme, documented incidents involving the Australian box jellyfish species, Chironex fleckeri, rapid collapse and subsequent death can occur extremely quickly. If the envenomation is sufficiently severe, the cardiotoxic nature of the venom allows it to induce cardiac arrest in as little as five minutes. This immediate threat distinguishes it from many other marine injuries, emphasizing the critical need for swift intervention to counteract the venom's immediate attack on the heart.

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