Red Tide Returns To Sarasota County Beaches: FL Dept. Of Health

SARASOTA COUNTY, FL — A week after a rede tide advisory was lifted in Sarasota County, elevated levels of the toxic algae bloom have been detected at several beaches in the area.

The beaches where red tide has been detected in water samples taken Monday include Bird Key/ Ringling Causeway, North Lido, Lido Casino, South Lido and Siesta Key, according to a news release from the Florida Department of Health.

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.

• Also Read: Red Tide Advisory Lifted At All Sarasota County Beaches: FL DOH

Those with breathing problems, like asthma, might experience more severe effects.

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.