Red Tide Detected At Sarasota-Area Beaches: FL Department Of Health

SARASOTA COUNTY, FL — A red tide advisory was issued for seven Sarasota County beaches this week, the Florida Department of Health said in a news release.

Elevated levels of red tide were found in Monday’s water samples from the following beaches:

• Longboat Key
• Bird Key Park/Ringling Causeway
• North Lido
• South Lido
• Siesta Key
• Turtle Beach
• Nokomis Beach

Signage has been posted at all beaches with elevated levels of red tide.

Some people may have mild and short-lived respiratory symptoms such as eye, nose and throat irritation like those associated with the common cold or seasonal sinus allergies, FDOH said.

Usually, symptoms stop when a person leaves the beach or goes indoors. Health officials recommend that people who are sensitive to red tide or experiencing symptoms avoid the beach or go into an air-conditioned space.

Health effects caused by exposure to red tide can be reported to Florida Poison Control Centers by calling 888-222-1222. Those experiencing continuing symptoms should also contact their health care provider.

The toxins can also affect the central nervous system of fish and other marine life, leading to fish kills. Report fish kills to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Research Institute via the FWC Reporter App, calling 800-636-0511 or online.

Those visiting these beaches should stay away from the water and any dead fish they might see, the FDOH advised. Pets and livestock should also be kept away from the water, sea foam and dead sea life.

The agency also advises against harvesting or eating molluscan shellfish or distressed or dead fish. If fish are healthy, rinse fillets with tap or bottled water and throw out the guts.