Red tides are caused by microscopic algae called Karenia Brevis in several regions of southwestern Florida.
Red Tide has water from southwest Florida in the “kill zone.”
The red tides caused by the creatures of Karenia Brevis are no strangers to the Florida oceans. According to the Florida Department of Health, they are recorded in the Gulf of Mexico, which dates back to the 1700s and 1840s along Florida’s Gulf Coast, and are soon recorded in the same way as the American Gulf in the US Gulf.
Red tides and other algae flowers can occur worldwide, but Carrenia Brevis is almost exclusively found in the Gulf of Mexico, but also found on the East Coast of Florida and off the coast of North Carolina. , Florida Department of Health said on its website. .
It does not make it easier to withstand toxins released into the air, and two health departments in southwestern Florida issued recommendations urging visitors and residents to take caution when heading to the beach. did.
What is red tide?
According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Committee, the red tide is a harmful algae bloom.
Why is it called the red tide?
At sufficient concentration, the red tide can discolor the water to a red or brown shade.
Red Tide Map: See Conditions Near Fort Cape Coral, Florida
Health alerts issued against red tide conditions at some Florida locations
The Florida Department of Health in Lee County issued a health warning on Wednesday, Feb. 5, for the presence of red tides near these locations.
Blind Pass Beach Boukirear Fishing Pierbouditch Park Beach
Collier County’s Florida Department of Health also advised the public on February 5th to be aware of red tides at these locations.
Barefoot Beach State Privel Vendorbilt Beach Clam Pass Wiggins Pasnaple Piers Gart
Check out the latest red tide conditions in Florida
To hear records of statewide red tide status, call the toll-free hotline at 866-300-9399.
What does red tide cell count mean?
According to the FWC, fish killing and marine mammals and bird deaths can begin once they reach 10,000 cells per liter.
Fish murders have been reported recently in Lee and Collier counties, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
Sel count off Sanibel has reached over 20 million people.
“It’s a high kill zone level,” said John Cassani, honorary waterkeeper at Caloosa.
When does the red tide appear and how long will it last?
Red tides usually form offshore naturally, typically ending summer or early autumn. The winds and currents are being transported to coastal waters, according to Lee County’s Department of Health.
According to the Florida Department of Health, red tide flowers can last for days, weeks, or months, and can change daily due to wind conditions and oceanic currents.
How dangerous is red tide for pets?
Karenia brevis produces powerful neurotoxins or breetoxins that are harmful to humans, pets, fish and wildlife. Wind and waves are K. Brevis cells can open and release toxins into the air.
People can experience different degrees of eye, skin and respiratory irritation from the red tide. According to the Ministry of Health, the effect can be felt by people who live in coastal areas near the coastline, not physically, and not in the water.
Sensitive individuals – children, elderly people, immunocompromised patients, and those with chronic respiratory illnesses may be at risk of experiencing more serious symptoms.
Symptoms of red tide
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, breathing ocean sprays during the red tide or ingesting water into the skin can cause symptoms including:
Breathsole coughs and sneezes attacks irritating collision attacks
Inhalation of Brevetoxins can lead to serious side effects, including: According to the Centers for Disease Control:
Aggravated short breathing insect coSconctric bronch pneumonitis
Eating shellfish such as mussels, oysters, and scallops can contain brevetoxin.
nuseivamitingdiarrheastomach Painnumb Lips, tongue, and throat lips
What precautions should be taken if red tides are present?
The Ministry of Health advised people to take the following precautions if red tides are present:
Do not wad or swim in or around the red tide. If your skin is easily irritated, especially if there is chronic respiratory condition, especially if there is a red tide, and if the skin is easily inflamed and the skin is in contact with recently, then soap and Wash your skin and clothes with fresh water. People with respiratory problems such as asthma, emphysema, and bronchitis should avoid areas with red tides, especially when winds are blowing on the coast. Make sure your air conditioner filter is maintained according to the manufacturer’s specifications. Do not harvest or eat mollusks, dead or dead fish from this location. If caught alive and healthy, finfish can be eaten safely as long as they are filleted, and the organs are discarded. Rinse fillets with taps or bottled water. Red tides can cause disease and death in other animals, such as pets and livestock. Keep animals apart, separate from the water and sea life, and away from the dead marine life. If your pet is swimming in the water in the red tide, wash it with soap and water as soon as possible.
Can the effects of red tide be reduced?
“People are usually relieved from respiratory symptoms by being in an air-conditioned space.
“For those who don’t have asthma or other chronic respiratory problems, over-the-counter antihistamines may relieve symptoms.
“People with chronic lung diseases should be particularly wary of taking prescribed medications every day. Always seek medical care if their symptoms worsen,” the Florida Department of Health said.
Is seafood safe if there is a red tide?
“Clams and oysters (molluscs) can contain red tide toxins that cause neurotoxic shellfish poisoning,” the Ministry of Health said.
“As a natural, healthy diet, it can be rinsed thoroughly and thoroughly. Animals have been found dead under any circumstances.”
Is it safe to swim and fish in Florida waters?
Beach water quality, health advisory issued in Florida
Algae blooms reported in Florida waters
How can I report Red Tide?
Human Health: Report symptoms to harmful algae blooming blooms or aquatic toxins by calling 800-222-1222 and talking to a poison expert. Animal Health: If you believe your pet has become ill after consuming or in contact with red tide contaminated water, contact your veterinarian. Or at 800-636-0511.
Contributor: Chad Gillis, Fort Myers News Press
