ANNA MARIA ISLAND – Red tide continues to pose a risk of respiratory irritation in Manatee and surrounding counties. The Florida Department of Health issued a warning that people may experience respiratory symptoms such as eye, nose and throat irritation similar to cold symptoms, with some people who have breathing problems, such as asthma, experiencing more severe symptoms.
High levels of red tide were detected in water samples at the Rod & Reel Pier in Anna Maria on Aug. 9 according to Friday’s Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission weekly report.
Medium levels were detected at the Kingfish boat ramp in Holmes Beach and low levels were detected at the Palma Sola Bay Bridge. Current forecasts are available at habforecast.gcoos.org and at visitbeaches.org.
Respiratory irritation was reported in Manatee, Sarasota, Pinellas and Charlotte counties last week.
Red tide produces a neurotoxin called brevetoxin that can cause respiratory irritation, coughing, and more serious illness for people with severe or chronic respiratory conditions such as asthma, emphysema or COPD, according to the Florida Department of Health.
Health officials recommend that people experiencing symptoms stay away from the water and go inside to an air-conditioned space. Wearing masks, especially during onshore winds, is also advised.
Red tide-related fish kills were reported over the past week in Manatee, Sarasota, Pinellas and Charlotte counties.
Health officials warn against swimming near dead fish, and advise keeping pets away from dead fish and seafoam, which can contain high concentrations of algae. Pets are not allowed on Anna Maria Island’s beaches, but are allowed on the Palma Sola Causeway on Manatee Avenue.
Officials also warn that consuming shellfish exposed to red tide can cause neurotoxic shellfish poisoning.
Florida Poison Control Centers have a toll-free 24/7 hotline for reporting illnesses, including health effects from exposure to red tide, at 1-888-232-8635.
