Florida Red Tide – Top 10 Red Tide Facts:

1. In Florida, red tide is caused by a microscopic alga (a plant-like microorganism) called Karenia brevis or K. Brevis.
2. The organism produces a toxin that can affect the central nervous system of fish, birds, mammals and other animals.
3. At high concentrations (called blooms); the organism may discolor the water – sometimes, red, light or dark green, brown or clear.
4. Red tides or Harmful Algai Blooms occur worldwide. K. brevis is almost exclusively in the Gulf of Mexico but has been found on the east coast of Florida and off the coast of North Carolina.
5. Red tide blooms can last days, weeks or months and can also change daily due to wind conditions. Offshore winds normally bring it near the shore and onshore winds drive it out to sea.
6. Red tide was first officially recorded in Florida in 1844.
7. A red tide bloom needs biology (the organisms), chemistry (natural or man-made nutrients for growth), physics (concentrating and transport mechanisms). No one factor causes it. Tests are being conducted to see if coastal nutrients enhance or prolong blooms.
8. Report fish kills to FWRI at 1-800-636-0511. Check current red tide status information by county at www.floridamarine.org.
9. To learn more about Red Tide go to www.RedTideOnline.com or view streaming videos online at www.Start1.com
10. Red Tide Health Hotline is FREE, 24/7 service staffed by medical professionals.
    Call 1-888-232-8635 for health questions.
    

For more information check these helpful red tide sites:
www.RedTideOnline.com
www.MyFWC.com
www.MOTE.org
www.START1.com

Florida Red Tide – Health Tips:

1. Most people can swim in red tide but it can cause skin irritation and burning eyes. If your skin is easily irritated, avoid red tide water. If you experience irritation, get out and thoroughly wash off with fresh water. Swimming near dead fish is not recommended.

2. Symptoms from breathing red tide toxins are normally coughing, sneezing and teary eyes. Symptoms are usually temporary when red tide toxins are in the air. Wearing a particle filter mask may lessen the affects, and research shows that using over-the counter antihistamines may decrease your symptoms. Check the marine forecast. Fewer toxins are in the air when the wind is blowing offshore. People with respiratory problems should avoid red tide areas, especially when winds are blowing toxins near shore. If you go to the beach, take your short acting inhaler with you. If you have symptoms, leave the beach and seek air conditioning.